Photo Courtesy EPS Facebook Page

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Alberta

Two EPS officers killed in Line of Duty; one male suspect deceased

Mar 16, 2023 | 11:32 AM

The Edmonton Police Service is mourning the deaths of two of its members, who were shot and killed while on duty earlier this morning in a west Edmonton apartment complex.

At approximately 12:47 a.m. today, Thursday, March 16, 2023, EPS West Branch patrol members responded to a family dispute call in an apartment complex near 114 Avenue and 132 Street.

Upon arrival, EPS officials say the two patrol members went inside the building, approached the suite, and were shot by a young male suspect. At this time, EPS says all indications are that they did not have a chance to discharge their service weapons. The two members were rushed to hospital, where they were both declared deceased.

“This is an extremely tragic day for the Edmonton Police Service and our city,” stated EPS Chief Dale McFee. “I’m deeply saddened to announce the Line of Duty deaths of two of our members that occurred earlier this morning. These officers gave their lives while trying to protect our community. They will never be forgotten.”

“On behalf of the entire EPS family, our deepest condolences go out to their families, during this heart-breaking time.”

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The deceased EPS members are West Branch patrol officers, Const. Brett Ryan, 30, with 5.5 years of service and Const. Travis Jordan, 35, with 8.5 years of service.

EPS officials say the young male suspect died from a self-inflicted gun-shot wound. A female complainant from the suite was also taken to hospital with serious injuries, where she remains in stable condition.

The Edmonton Police Service’s Employee and Family Assistance Section have since been called out to assist the families of the deceased officers and other members of the police service.

EPS says funeral and procession details will be confirmed and shared with the community in the coming days.

Erick Ambtman, Chair of the Edmonton Police Commission, issued the following statement regarding the deaths of the two on-duty police officers:

“On behalf of all members and staff of the Edmonton Police Commission and from the bottom of our hearts, we offer our deepest condolences to the entire Edmonton Police Service for the senseless and truly tragic loss of Constables Travis Jordan and Brett Ryan.

“This morning, these officers made the ultimate sacrifice while selflessly serving all of us who call Edmonton home.

“And the families, friends, and colleagues whose shoulders our service members stand on each day have now also made that ultimate sacrifice.

“We are extremely saddened by the news of these two young lives being cut short.

“Constables Jordan and Ryan will be forever remembered for their courage, bravery, compassion, and service while working to keep Edmonton’s streets safe.

“This is a day we did not expect and hoped would never happen in our city.

“We wish to express our deep sorrow and please know that our thoughts are with you all as the Edmonton Police Service moves through this incredibly difficult time.

“Day in and day out, the Edmonton Police Service is there for all of us and at all hours.

“Today and in the coming days, we ask that all Edmontonians to be there for the EPS as we share their grief, offer our care and compassion, and honour them for the important public service they provide.

“We thank you for your service.”

Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis have issued the following statement following the death of two Edmonton police officers on Thursday:

“Today, the province mourns the loss of two police officers killed in the line of duty. 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.

“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. Alberta would not be the great province it is today without the support of the courageous men and women who patrol our streets every day to keep our communities protected. The province is here to support the Edmonton Police Service during this tragic loss. To honour the service and dedication of these lost officers, the flags at the legislature will be lowered to half-mast.

“This is a difficult situation for many. For those affected by this tragedy and struggling with mental health, supports are available. The Alberta Health Services Mental Health Help Line is a 24-hour confidential service that provides support, information and referrals to Albertans experiencing mental health concerns and can be reached at 1-877-303-2642.”