1/12/2011 5:27:20 PM

January 12, 2011

Statement from Mayor Rob Ford on the death of Sgt. Ryan Russell

"On behalf of all members of City Council and every resident of Toronto, I want to extend my deepest condolences and sympathy to the family of Sergeant Ryan Russell and his colleagues in 52 Division and throughout the Toronto Police Service.

"Sergeant Russell, an 11-year veteran of the Toronto Police Service, died this morning while on duty, acting to protect the people of Toronto. His bravery and service to the City of Toronto will not be forgotten.

"Toronto has the best police service in the world. Sergeant Russell is a shining example of the men and women of our police service who put their lives on the line to protect us each day. They, along with our fire and emergency medical workers do their jobs selflessly every day and earn the respect and appreciation of us all."

The City of Toronto will honour Sergeant Russell by lowering the flags at Toronto City Hall and all Civic Centres to half mast.