Features
RCMP mourns loss of Const. Heidi Stevenson in the line of duty

“Today is a devastating day for Nova Scotia and it will remain etched in the minds of many, for years to come,” said Nova Scotia RCMP Commanding Officer, Assistant Commissioner Lee Bergerman yesterday, after RCMP members responded to a series of serious criminal events in Colchester County, N.S., on Saturday night and into Sunday morning.

Her full statement is below:

What has unfolded overnight and into this morning is incomprehensible and many families are experiencing the loss of a loved one.

That includes our own RCMP family. It is with tremendous sadness that I share with you that we lost Const. Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the force who was killed this morning, while responding to an active shooter incident.

Heidi answered the call of duty and lost her life while protecting those she served.

Earlier this afternoon, I met with Heidi’s family and there are no words to describe their pain. Two children have lost their mother and a husband his wife. Parents lost their daughter and countless others lost an incredible friend and colleague.

Heidi’s family is a part of our RCMP family and we will embrace and support them in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Unfortunately, I have to also share that another one of our officers was injured and is in hospital receiving treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He and his family will be supported and we will be alongside him as he begins his road to recovery.

This tragic incident has also resulted in many victims outside of the RCMP.

Countless families are in mourning today. Each person who lost their life had family and friends and they too will need support.

The impact of this incident will extend from one end of this province to the other. As Nova Scotians, we have to do what we are known for. And come together in times of need and support one another.

Brian Sauvé, president of the RCMP union, the National Police Federation, also released a statement yesterday:

“Our hearts are heavy with grief and sadness today as we have lost one of our own. Our thoughts go out to our member’s family and friends.

A second dedicated member was injured in the line of duty today. We will do everything we can to support them and wish them a full recovery.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our RCMP brothers and sisters, all of the victims’ families, the community of Colchester County and the province of Nova Scotia as we mourn the loss of Canadians. Our thoughts are with everyone who experienced great loss today, so tragically and unnecessarily. There are no words.

The NPF is on the ground in the Halifax area working hard to ensure all our members and their families are supported. We are there for them now and will be there for them for the coming days and months as they work through this tragedy.

As Canadians, we are extremely fortunate these incidents are not common. RCMP members continue to protect Canadians and are professional in the work they do every day to keep communities and Canadians safe. Their dedication to serve their country is unwavering.

Our heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the members involved in the manhunt and the timely resolution to this violent attack. Your efforts and selflessness in this situation are heroic, invaluable and have kept others in the community safe. We thank you for your service.”

The Nova Scotia provincial crisis line is available 24/7: 1-888-429-8167. Others are standing by the take your call as well, such as those at Badge of Life Canada.