The Canadian Criminal Justice Association (CCJA) extends its deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of RCMP Constable Rick O’Brien, who tragically lost his life while executing a search warrant in Coquitlam, on Friday morning. He leaves behind a wife and six children. In the same incident, two other officers were injured.
Const. O’Brien, 51, was a distinguished and dedicated constable serving with the Ridge Meadows detachment. His commitment to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement for over seven years earned him respect and admiration from his peers and superiors alike.
A close friend noted that O’Brien worked closely with youth that had mental health struggles. “It was just a natural fit from going from the mental health work that that he did,” she said. “And that’s what his specialty was on the RCMP force was — his mental health work and de-escalating situations with people.”
The loss of Const. O’Brien is a somber reminder of the profound sacrifices made by our law enforcement officers every day as they work diligently to protect our communities.
The Canadian Criminal Justice Association wishes to express its support and solidarity with the injured officers and their families during this challenging time. We hope for their swift and complete recovery.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Const. O’Brien’s family, friends, and the entire law enforcement community as they grapple with this devastating loss.