Det. John Park started off his 14-year career in the Toronto Police Service at 22 Division in South Etobicoke.
A Go Fund Me page has been created to help the family of former Toronto Police Det. John Park who died on duty last month of a medical issue.
Almost $200,000 has been raised to help the officer’s family. A funeral service attended by dozens of colleagues was held for him on December 30.
Park started his 14-year career at 22 Division in South Etobicoke before moving to the force’s Hold Up Squad.
He passed away on December 19 while executing a search warrant at a North York high rise, according to police.
Park, 40, leaves behind a wife Tina, and two children, aged 5 and 9. Three books of tributes from friends and the public to the officer were left at 22 Division and Police Headquarters. They have been given to his family.
Det. John Park with his wife Tina and their two young children in happier times.
“There are no words to express the sorrow we feel right now,” Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue said. “This is every family’s worst fear, when a loved one works as a police officer and does not come home safely after their shift.”
She said the grieving family did not have a husband or dad this Christmas season.
“He served our city with courage and a great sense of duty,” Pogue said. “Losing a friend and colleague has a profound impact on our officers.”
Dozens of officers lined the streets outside the hospital where Park was pronounced dead to show respect for their colleague.
Clayton Campbell, president of the Toronto Police Association, said members are coming together to support Park’s family.
“It’s devastating. It’s just such a sad situation in the hospital right now.” Mayor Olivia Chow said she was “heartbroken” by the officer’s death, and has been in touch with Chief Myron Demkiw.