NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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A bridge over Highway 400 has been officially dedicated in memory of Senior Constable Thomas Coffin — a fallen officer from the Ontario Provincial Police.
Const. Coffin died on May 31, 1997, when he was shot by a man he had arrested on suspicion of impaired driving a year earlier.
The bridge being dedicated is at the County Road 93 exit over Highway 400 in Simcoe County. Memorial signs with the officer’s name and police service crest have been posted at each side of the bridge on Highway 400 in his honour.
QUOTES
“Every day, Ontario’s police officers put their lives on the line for us. This bridge dedication commemorates the service and commitment demonstrated by Constable Tom Coffin during his career as a police officer.” said Yasir Naqvi, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
“As Ontarians drive on Highway 400, they will be able to reflect on the service of Constable Coffin and honour him and all those who have died in the line of duty.” said Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation.
“The loss of Senior Constable Thomas P. Coffin in this horrific manner was a tragic occasion for the officer’s friends and family, his community members and the entire Ontario Provincial Police family. I am pleased that, years after this heartbreaking event, we continue to remember Constable Coffin as we honour him with this ceremony.” said J.V.N. (Vince) Hawkes, Commissioner, Ontario Provincial Police.
“Police officers put their lives on the line every time they report for duty. We owe them our thanks and appreciation for the work they do every day.” said Ann Hoggarth, MPP Barrie.
QUICK FACTS
- Since 2002, Ontario has permitted bridges and other highway structures to be dedicated in memory of fallen police officers.
- Sixty-two provincial highway structures have been dedicated in honour of fallen police officers.
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