Police officers from the North Shore will be among those on duty in Abbotsford and neighbouring communities this weekend, so that Abbotsford police can attend the funeral of their fallen comrade, Const. John Davidson.
Davidson was shot and killed while on duty Nov. 6 after responding to a report of a stolen car and shots fired in Abbotsford.
A public memorial will be held for Davidson this Sunday, Nov. 19 at the Abbotsford Centre.
Four officers from the West Vancouver Police Department will be pitching in to cover shifts before and after the funeral next weekend, said Const. Jeff Palmer, spokesman for the department. Two officers will work a night shift in Abbotsford on Nov. 18 and two will work a night shift on Nov. 19 so that all of Davidson’s colleagues will be able to attend the funeral.
The officers are among many throughout the Lower Mainland who will be assisting.
Cpl. Richard De Jong of the North Vancouver RCMP said North Vancouver officers have also volunteered to help out in Abbotsford and nearby communities if needed.
Palmer said the shooting of Davidson has hit close to home for his department. Chief Const. Len Goerke had a 27-year career in the Abbotsford Police Department before coming to West Vancouver. Two civilian staff at the West Vancouver Police Department also worked with Davidson at the Abbotsford Police Department, said Palmer. “It has an impact.”
Palmer said while he didn’t know Davidson directly, he knew of Davidson’s work in schools as a liaison officer and through Cops for Cancer.
“It resonates very directly with everyone,” said Palmer of Davidson’s tragic death. “Those are risks that could come and visit any officer anywhere.”
