Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton is sharing her and city councils condolences for the two Edmonton Police Officers killed in the line of duty on March 16th.
In the message shared on the City of Grande Prairie Facebook Clayton says she and council offer their deepest condolences to the friends, family and fellow officers of 35-year-old Constable Travis Jordan and 30-year-old Constable Brett Ryan.
“We are grateful for every officer and first responder who risks their lie to keep us safe,” Clayton says. “We join Edmontonians and those across the province in their grief as we collectively mourn this tragedy.”
Both the city and County of Grande Prairie have lowered their flags to half-mast in memory of the two officers.
On Thursday Alberta Premiere Danielle Smith and NDP leader Rachelle Notley also issued statements of condolence.
“On behalf of the Government of Alberta, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Const. Travis Jordan and Const. Brett Ryan,” Smith says. ““Every day, police officers across Alberta put on their uniforms to step up to protect and serve our communities. The sudden and tragic deaths of these two Edmonton Police Service officers remind us again of the dangers police officers constantly face to ensure the safety of Albertans. Alberta’s government supports our police services to ensure they can perform their duties to keep our communities safe.”
“I know that there are no words that can truly capture the scale of heartbreak experienced by Albertans today. I offer the sincerest and deepest condolences on behalf of His Majesty’s Official Opposition,” Notley says. “I first want to speak to the members of the Edmonton Police Service, and by extension, all Albertans who serve their communities on police forces across this province: Alberta stands with you. Today’s tragedy reminds us of your sacrifice and your bravery. You put yourselves in danger for the sake of our loved ones, our children, our parents and grandparents. People who mean the world to someone but are total strangers to you. You work in one of the most dangerous professions in the world and the consequences of your courage can be devastating. Today, all of Alberta grieves with you.”
According to the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) around 12:47 a.m. Constable Jordan and Constable Ryan, members of the West Branch patrol, responded to a call regarding a family dispute. Officials say the two officers were shot by a young male suspect when they approached the suite. At this time police believe the officers did not have a chance to fire their service weapons. Both officers were rushed to the hospital were they where declared deceased.
Police say the male suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A second person in the suite, a female, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Officials say she is in stable condition.
EPS will release details about a funeral and procession for the two officers in the coming days.