Estevan police chief pens thank-you letter following tragic Nov. 1

Estevan Police Service Chief Rich Lowen published a letter thanking everyone involved in helping out the service on, and since, a tragic November 1.

He also said that the officer who was shot during an incident that day at the police station is recovering and will be back on the job.

Here is the letter in its entirety:

As many of you know, on Wednesday, November 1st, the Estevan Police Service was involved in several serious incidents. During that time two lives were lost and Sgt Braden Lonsberry suffered a gunshot wound.  Let me first acknowledge the loss of life on that terrible day and say that our deepest condolences go out to the family members suffering that loss.

I wanted to send a letter to all those that assisted us on that day to personally say thank-you. There were so many agencies involved in assisting us that it is impossible to recognize everyone. To all our friends at Weyburn Police Service, Regina Police Service, Moosejaw Police, the RCMP and the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers. The support in helping us has been overwhelming. There was help with everything from maintaining operations in meeting the needs of the community, to investigating the serious crimes that had occurred, to assisting the family members of those involved.

Officers came together to help support us. The well wishes and offerings of support from all over our great province and from across Canada was truly remarkable. As I said there were so many agencies helping us that it is hard to name you all, but please know that it was truly appreciated.

To the members of St. Joseph’s Hospital and paramedics, the emergency service you provided was the best I have ever witnessed in over 34 years of policing. Thank you for all the help you provided to the injured and their families.  The professionalism and dedication you gave on that day was second to none. Thank you to STARS and Regina General Hospital for the fantastic medical service you provided to us.

Finally, I wanted to say thank-you to the community, the support you gave to us on that very difficult day was so greatly appreciated. Words cannot describe the gratitude that I feel. I know it affected so many people and to have you come together with us, reminds us of why we do what we do.

I wanted to let you know that we are doing well. Sgt Lonsberry is recovering at home and will be returning to duty.

We are still standing in service of Estevan, but I want you know, we are standing because you hold us up.

My personal thank you to you all,

Chief Rich Lowen