Toronto cop dies on duty after apparent medical emergency
The Holdup Squad detective – whose death comes just six days before Christmas – leaves behind a wife and two young kids
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A Toronto Police Holdup Squad officer died while executing a search warrant in North York early Thursday.
Toronto Police Association President Clayton Campbell confirmed that an officer died after participating in a search warrant in a firearms case.
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Campbell said the veteran cop had close to 14 years of experience and was highly respected by his colleagues. He had also received a teamwork award in 2017.
Campbell said members of the service are devastated and are being offered support services.
The officer experienced a medical episode while executing a search warrant in 31 Division, according to an internal memo obtained by the Toronto Sun.
“Preliminary information suggests the cause of death may be medical,” Police said in a message posted on X.
Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue spoke to media and identified the officer as Det. John Park, describing him as a “wonderful and loving father” who was “appreciated by everyone who knew him.”
She said Park was married with two children, ages nine and five.
“This is heartbreaking news, just before Christmas,” Pogue said, fighting back tears as she spoke outside Humber River Hospital in North York Thursday afternoon.
Pogue said police met with Park’s family at the Humber River Hospital, where he was taken.
“Losing a friend and colleague in the line of duty always has a profound impact on our service, on our city, on our members, in our policing community,” she said “The strength, character and resilience of our members and the entire policing family will be needed.”
Mayor Olivia Chow and Premier Doug Ford have issued statements, offering their condolences to the officer’s family.
“I am heartbroken to learn of the death of a police officer while on duty. I am in touch with Chief Demkiw and I understand the circumstances are still being confirmed and investigated,” Chow said.
A large police and emergency crew presence was seen outside the hospital as the officer’s body was transported to the coroner’s office.
“This is every family’s worst fear, when a loved one works as a police officer and does not come home safely after their shift,” Pogue said. “He served our city with courage and a great sense of duty.”
Chief Myron Demkiw released a statement calling the detective’s on-duty death during the holiday season “devastating.”
And Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre took to social media to offer his condolences.
“My condolences to the family and friends of Toronto Police Detective John Park, who tragically passed away in the line of duty this morning,” Poilievre said.
“Our thoughts are with the entire Toronto Police Service team, and to all those who got to know him during his 14 years of dedicated professional service to the community.”
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