EDMONTON—Const. Travis Jordan and Const. Brett Ryan have been identified by the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) as the two officers killed on March 16 while on duty.
Jordan was 35 years old, and had served eight and a half years with the EPS. Ryan was 30 years old, and had been a police officer with the force for five and a half years.
Chief Dale McFee provided the details at a news conference on March 16, alongside Alberta Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis, Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, and other police officials.
“Constables Jordan and Ryan were valued members of our EPS family. I can’t tell you how devastated we are with their loss,” McFee said.
Calling the murder of the two officers an “unthinkable and horrific tragedy,” McFee said the police would be providing statements and updates as information becomes available.
At approximately 12:47 am, Constables Jordan and Ryan, of EPS West Division, responded to a family dispute, at an apartment building near 114 Avenue and 132 Street in northwest Edmonton, according to police.
“Upon arrival the two patrol members went inside building, approached the suite and were shot by a male subject. At this time, all indications are, they did not have a chance to discharge their firearms,” said McFee.
Jordan and Ryan were rushed to hospital by fellow police officers who “worked valiantly to save their lives en route,” said the chief.
Both officers were declared dead at the hospital.
McFee said a young male subject is also deceased, believed to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The female who called 911, was related to the subject, police said. She was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, and remains in serious, but stable condition, according to police.
“We ask for your patience and understanding for our members, and the multiple families impacted by today’s incidents. Please give space to our officers who are mourning their colleagues. We are all grieving,” McFee said.
Ellis extended condolences from the government of Alberta and said this was a reminder of how dangerous police work is on a daily basis.
“As a former police officer myself, this hits very close to home,” he said. “Tell my brothers and sisters out there, my heart is with you.”
A visibly tearful Sohi also spoke, saying, “I’m here before you today with a very heavy heart. We are all devastated.”
“The contributions of Const. Ryan and Const. Jordan will always be remembered. When you see an officer working to keep you safe and other community safe, please thank them for their service,” he said.
Premier Danielle Smith and Ellis issued a joint statement following the news conference, declaring their support for the police service.
“Alberta would not be the great province it is today without the support of the courageous men and women who patrol our streets every day to keep our communities protected,” the statement said.
“The province is here to support the Edmonton Police Service during this tragic loss. To honour the service and dedication of these lost officers, the flags at the legislature will be lowered to half-mast.”
