One year later, Edmonton police constables slain in the line of duty are honored

It has been a year since Edmonton Police Service constables Brett Ryan and Travis Jordan were shot and killed in the line of duty while on a domestic call. The tragic incident left friends and colleagues mourning the loss of the two men who were gunned down by a 16-year-old in an apartment suite in Inglewood. The teen also shot and wounded his mother before taking his own life. An Edmonton man has been charged with manslaughter for selling the rifle to the teen.

Dave Pedersen, who is a musician and songwriter, remembered the last call he worked with Ryan, which involved calming down a special needs individual having a panic attack in a car. Pedersen described both Ryan and Jordan as wonderful people who are deeply missed. He highlighted Jordan’s work ethic, humility, and problem-solving skills, stating that he was the type of person one would want in a police officer. Pedersen and his band recorded a tribute song for the fallen constables.

Paul Cyr, a friend of Jordan, reflected on their friendship and the eerie connection between a case they discussed and the tragic events that unfolded. He remembered playing Xbox with Jordan the night before he was killed, emphasizing Jordan’s personal magnetism, kindness, and ability to handle stressful situations. Cyr continues to replay the details of the case in his mind and believes that the impact of their deaths will linger for a long time.

Following the tragedy, an annual golf tournament has been established in Jordan’s name. Meanwhile, a community arena in Spruce Grove will be named in honor of Ryan, who was a well-respected referee with the Spruce Grove Minor Hockey Association. Ryan’s widow, Ashley, expressed gratitude for the support they have received from the community. She gave birth to their son after Ryan’s death, and the arena naming was seen as a fitting tribute to his memory.

The naming of the arena was seen as a way to ensure that Ryan’s spirit and passion for helping others continue to be felt in the community. His parents, Bob and Laurie Ryan, described the arena as a second home for their son and expressed hope that it would evoke the same sense of joy, camaraderie, and passion that Ryan brought to the rink. Additionally, Spruce Grove Mayor Jeff Acker emphasized Ryan’s impact on the community and the importance of honoring his memory in a meaningful way. The legacy of Ryan and Jordan continues to inspire and shape the lives of those who knew them.