OACP Statement: Toronto Police Service Constable Andrew Hong

Statement by Ontario’s Police Leaders Regarding the Death of

Toronto Police Service Constable Andrew Hong

 Jeff McGuire, O.O.M.
Executive Director, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

The death of a police officer deeply affects that officer’s family and friends, as well as every woman and man who serves as an officer. Today, having had time to process the September 12, 2022, death in the line of duty of Constable Andrew Hong of the Toronto Police Service, members of all police services across our Province and our Country truly lived their worst day. 

When a husband,  father, friend, and colleague is senselessly struck down, it causes each and every member of our profession, civilian and sworn, to experience deep grief that will take time to heal. 

Police officers understand and embrace the inherent risks associated with their work. But they also understand the job of a police officer is part of the social fabric; an integral part  of a safe and just society. The work of our officers matters when it comes to safe homes, neighbourhoods, businesses, and communities. 

As Ontario’s police leaders, members of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) have been expressing our deepest sympathies to Constable Hong’s family. To Constable Hong’s colleagues at Toronto Police Service – his friends and truly his police family – we have been offering heart-felt condolences. Constable Hong’s death is a wound felt deeply by all of us. We will take time to grieve, to support one another, and to heal. 

Thank you to all of the first responders who were involved in dealing with yesterday’s tragic incident. Take time to reach out to your colleagues, your families, your friends. Know we are all grieving together. 

Thank you to Ontarians and Canadians who have showered Constable Hong’s family and colleagues at Toronto Police Service, and all police services, with tremendous love and support. It is so very appreciated during this difficult time. 

Rest assured that in the hours that have passed since this horrific event, police officers across Ontario and Canada have continued to report for duty to ensure the safety of their communities, and they always will.