‘We have that personal connection:’ Troy Cooper heartbroken after Edmonton officers’ deaths

Saskatoon Police Chief Troy Cooper said he’s shocked and heartbroken over news of the deaths of two Edmonton police officers.

According to the Edmonton Police Service, constables Brett Ryan, 30, and Travis Jordan, 35, were shot and killed by a young male while responding to a family dispute early Thursday morning. The suspected shooter was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot.

Cooper said he’s worked with Edmonton’s police chief, Dale McFee, for many years, and many Saskatoon police officers also have connections to officers in the Alberta capital.

“We have that personal connection,” he said.

“You’re always shocked when you hear of a tragedy like this, so we’re just trying to process it.”

The shootings, Cooper said, offered a stark reminder of the dangerous nature of police work. The chief added that support will be offered to Saskatoon police employees.

“We send our staff to these sorts of calls many times during the week, and we just want to make sure they’re safe,” Cooper said.

Domestic or family violence calls can sometimes be the most dangerous. Cooper said that even routine traffic stops can turn violent suddenly, which means police have to be vigilant at all times.

“It’s the unknown,” Cooper explained. “We work in an unmanaged environment, and that’s why we have to wear the equipment that we do, because we never know where we’re sending our staff to.”

Saskatoon police are wearing black and blue memorial ribbons with the police service seal in the middle in recognition of the Edmonton officers’ sacrifice.

Cooper said once they know more details, Saskatoon Police Service representatives will travel to Edmonton for the memorial services.