SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — The Late Constable Tarun Bali

Honourable senators, I was hoping that I would never again have the occasion to do another tribute to a fallen police officer.

Sadly, Ontario Provincial Police Officer Constable Tarun Bali was killed in the line of duty yesterday afternoon at approximately 12:30 p.m. A two-and-a-half-year veteran of the Ontario Provincial Police, or OPP, Constable Bali was assigned to the Dufferin Detachment and was serving on deployment with the James Bay Detachment in northern Ontario.

Tragically, he leaves behind a wife who is expecting their first child. The family includes his parents, brother and sister, who are travelling today to escort his body back home to Brampton.

Constable Bali’s death is a reminder of the inherent dangers faced daily by our police officers and the extraordinary commitment demonstrated by the men and women who carry the badge. They leave their homes not knowing what challenges and dangers await them; yet they continue to stand between danger and the communities they serve and protect. It is a responsibility they eagerly accept with courage, humility and a profound sense of duty.

OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique confirmed that the suspect faces charges of first-degree murder, along with other serious criminal offences. Although the investigation is in the early stages, we know that officers attempted to apprehend a suspect who had escaped from a hospital during a mental health assessment. He allegedly struck Constable Bali with a motor vehicle and fled the scene.

Constable Bali, a well-liked and respected officer, was described by his friends and colleagues as a stand-up, stellar person.

Expressing sorrow, Commissioner Carrique of the OPP noted that Constable Bali had dreamed of being a police officer since he was a small child.

This is every police officer and family member’s recurring worst nightmare. It’s another reminder of the dangers that police officers face every day as they stand between good and evil.

As Canadians, we must never forget that behind every badge is a human being — a son, a daughter, a mother, a father, a spouse and a friend — who has chosen a life of service to others. May we honour Constable Tarun Bali’s memory, not only with our gratitude for his ultimate sacrifice but also by supporting those who continue to serve. Thank you.