OPP builds memorial for officers who have died by suicide

ORILLIA – The OPP has completed construction of its new suicide memorial, located outside OPP headquarters here.

The memorial is open to the public and can be accessed from the main parking lot at the facility.

“With this memorial, the OPP is honouring the lives of its officers who have died by suicide,” states an Oct. 15 OPP press release.

“The memorial recognizes that, while these officers did not die in the line of duty, the difficulties they experienced leading to their deaths are often related to their duty as law enforcement members.

“This is recognized by the term ‘because of duty death,’ originally coined by Canada Beyond the Blue president, Dilnaz Garda.”

In addition to the outdoor memorial, the OPP will recognize its members who have died by suicide with a wall of engraved plaques displayed indoors at the Orillia headquarters.

“After speaking with families of officers who had died by suicide, it was evident that we needed a way to recognize and remember the significant contribution these officers made to our communities and our province,” stated OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique.

‘This memorial is a testament to our members’ dedication to duty each and every day. It’s a testament to those who tragically died by suicide, but served our organization, our communities and our province with pride, professionalism and honour.”

Officials say family, friends and colleagues can submit names to be added to the memorial wall. For information call 1-844-677-9409 or email OPPHealth@opp.ca.