As condolences from around the province and across Canada have been flooding in after news that two Edmonton Service Police officers were killed in the line of duty on Thursday, March 16, Rocky View County announced it will also be honouring the slain officers.

In a tweet on Thursday afternoon, it was announced that the county would be flying its flags at half-mast in support of Const. Travis Jordan & Const Brett Ryan.

During a morning press briefing, visibly shaken Edmonton Police Service Chief Dale McFee said that the loss was difficult to put into words.  

"Our members are today, even in the face of tragedy, at work protecting our city. This is what police officers do every day. Even when they understand the risks that they face," Chief McFee said. "As a police chief, I just want to tell you, [that I am] humbled and proud of our members who continue to serve our community; this community under such horrific circumstances. We appreciate all the expressions of support from all over the country nationally and internationally."

Police agencies across Alberta have joined in offering their condolences. The Calgary Police Service stated that they share in the profound grief and loss of the fallen officers. 

"They made the ultimate sacrifice in serving their communities. On behalf of the CPS, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues," The CPS official Facebook account stated.

The Alberta RCMP also released a similar statement on their social media.

"We are saddened by the tragic loss of two Edmonton Police Service officers earlier today. We extend our sincerest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of these two fallen officers. Our thoughts are with them and our partners at Edmonton Police Service."

Other local first responder branches have also offered their sympathies and condolences. Airdrie's Fire Department wrote on their social media about the devastating news.

"Our prayers are with the families and all Edmonton Police members at this most tragic time. We will do whatever we can to provide support."

While Airdrie's Fire Chief, Mike Pirie, wrote on his official social media account that as first responders, all the branches rely heavily on each other.

"Our deepest, heartfelt condolences from the entire Airdrie Fire Department and Municipal Enforcement family to the families and friends of these officers. As first responders, we rely heavily on police officers to keep us safe and have our backs. I can't even express the sadness that ripples through emergency services when something like this happens."

According to the Edmonton Police Service, the two EPS West Branch patrol members responded to a family dispute call in an apartment complex near 114 Avenue and 132 Street in Edmonton in the early morning hours on Thursday. 

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

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

30-year-old Const. Ryan, 30, had 5.5 years of service, while 35-year-old Const. Jordan had 8.5 years of service.

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

Funeral and procession details will be confirmed and shared with the community in the coming days.

Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com 

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