The Canada 911 Ride, an annual multi-day charity motorcycle ride in honour of fallen first responders, successfully drew to a close this weekend in Simcoe County. This year, five Ontario police officers, who tragically lost their lives while performing their duties last year, were remembered and honoured.
Hundreds of police and civilian motorcyclists embarked on a journey through Simcoe County, York Region, and Durham Region. The ride served as a heartfelt tribute to Constable Andrew Hong from the Toronto Police Service, Greg Pierzchala from the Ontario Provincial Police, Morgan Russell and Devon Northrup from the South Simcoe police, and Travis Gillespie from York Regional Police.
Acting Sgt. Tim Dunnah with the OPP expressed that the loss of these officers was profoundly felt. “Their sacrifices and tragedies weigh heavily on my heart. Many of them were colleagues I knew personally. I am here to honour their memory and support their families in the best way I can – through this ride”.
The charitable endeavour was organised by the Canada 9-1-1 Ride Foundation, a not-for-profit charity involved in such undertakings for the past seventeen years. Over these years, the foundation has successfully raised more than $1 million, assisting the families of fallen officers.
“We offer bursaries for post-secondary education to children of fallen first responders – police, firefighters, and paramedics. In addition, we also reach out to children traumatically impacted as a result of criminal activities,” explained Jim Adamson, a spokesperson for the Canada 9-1-1 Foundation.
Remarkably many individuals who participate in these rides have been doing so for years and make it a tradition to bring their children along to pay their respects. Staff Sgt. Shane Stevenson from the Toronto Police Service said, “It’s inspiring to see the outpouring of support from our community. It’s heartening to see people brandishing banners and flags in tribute to our fallen comrades.”
The event concluded in Aurora with a final homage to Const. Hong, a notable member of the Toronto police motor squad.
