South Simcoe Police Acting Chief John Van Dyke says his force is devastated by the loss of two of its members.
Around 8 pm last night, two officers, 33-year-old Constable Devon Northrup and 54-year-old Constable Morgan Russell were called to a home near 25th Sideroad and 9th Line for a domestic disturbance and were shot inside the home.
Chief Van Dyke says Northrup died after being rushed to a local hospital and Morgan passed away this morning after being airlifted to Toronto. The suspect died following an interaction with officers.
Constable Northrup was 33 years old and a 6-year member of the service currently assigned to the Community Mobilization and Engagement Unit.
Constable Northrup is survived by his partner, his parents, and his many close friends. He also served as a member of South Simcoe Police’s mental health Crisis Outreach and Support Team and the Emergency Response Unit.
Constable Morgan was aged 54 and a 33-year veteran of the service. He was assigned to uniform patrol and was a trained crisis negotiator. He is survived by his wife and two teenage children.
Van Dyke says York Regional Police will investigate the circumstances of the incident.
The Province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has also invoked its mandate in the case.
The Acting Chief has asked the public for their patience and to give police privacy as they attempt to come to terms with the loss of two beloved members of their police family.
