The Edmonton Police Service is mourning two officers who were shot and killed in the line of duty Thursday morning.
In a media release, the service said patrol officers Const. Brett Ryan, 30, and Const. Travis Jordan, 35, were killed while responding to a call about a domestic dispute.
Ryan had 5 1/2 years of service with the force, while Jordan had been with the service for 8 1/2 years.
“These people were doing their job,” EPS Chief Dale McFee said during a media conference. “This is unthinkable, it’s unimaginable, it’s horrific (and) it’s a tragedy, but we will move on because that’s what we do.”
According to police, the male suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A woman from the suite was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
Police said the officers responded just before 1 a.m., to a call about a family dispute in an apartment complex.
McFee said the officers went inside the building, approached the suite and were shot by the suspect. Police say it appeared that neither officer had a chance to return fire.
“The two members were rushed to the hospital by our own members who worked valiantly to save their lives en route,” McFee said. “Unfortunately, they are both declared deceased at the hospital.”
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi also spoke during the media conference, paying tribute to the fallen officers and the rest of the members of the force.
“Every single day, police officers put their lives at risk to help protect the public,” Sohi said. “Every day, families of the police officers send their loved ones off to duty, to work, and hope they return home safely. This did not happen today for the Ryan and Jordan families.”
“Our members are today, even in the face of tragedy, at work protecting our city,” McFee added. “This is what police officers do every day, even when they understand the risks that they face. We are grateful for their ongoing commitment even in the face of tragedy.”
Word of the tragedy spread quickly among law enforcement agencies, which began sending condolences to their counterparts in Alberta.
Tragic news out of Edmonton this morning. On behalf of all members of @reginapolice we send our heartfelt condolences to the officer’s families and all @edmontonpolice. https://t.co/fDEuXH4B1S pic.twitter.com/hycdaoZ93x
— Chief Evan Bray (@evanjbray) March 16, 2023
Estevan Police Service sending condolences to members and family of Edmonton Police Service. Rest in peace , your service will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/FLYZTQ9iDG
— Estevan Police (@Estevan_Police) March 16, 2023
Our hearts are with the EPS in mourning the loss of Constables Jordan and Ryan who were killed while on duty this morning.
We extend support and sympathy to their families, loved ones, the EPS, policing colleagues, and all community members impacted by these tragic events. pic.twitter.com/Zcm9JJ8Olc
— Saskatoon Police (@SaskatoonPolice) March 16, 2023