Family and fellow officers came together to remember a fallen Cobourg police officer on May 15, 2018.
Constable Chris Garrett was murdered in the early hours of May 15, 2004 while responding to a robbery call on Chapel Street.
Garrett was ambushed while taking a statement from what was thought to be the alleged victim.
Though mortally wounded, Garrett chased after his assailant and wounding him.
The person was later arrested and convicted of first degree murder.
Each year, family, friends and fellow officers from area departments come to Chris Garrett Memorial Park to remember a fallen hero.
Like the weather on May 15, 2004, there was a steady rain that fell over Garrett’s Park.
Colleague and friend, retired Constable John Roughley spoke of Garrett and the connection to his family during the ceremony which started at noon. Constable Garrett’s father died earlier this year, and Roughley spoke how his last visit with the Garrett’s ended with a visit to Garrett’s grave with his father.
In attendance at the Park to hear Roughley’s words at noon was Garrett’s mother, his three sisters, neighbours of Constable Garrett, retired Cobourg Police officers and OPP officers, members of the Cobourg Police, Durham Regional Police Service, Port Hope Police including the Chief of Police. Cobourg Police Chief Kai Liu, Deputy Chief Paul VandeGraaf and Acting Staff Sgt. Brent Allison arriving at 12:30 p.m.
Every year Roughley ties a bouquet of flowers around the tree on Chapel Street where Garrett was murdered.
Cobourg Police tweeted out an invitation to the public at approximately 11 a.m. on May 15 inviting members of the public to attend. Unfortunately the announcement mentioned it was 13-years ago Constable Garrett was murdered when in fact it was 14-years ago.
Along with retired Constable John Roughley, also working the night Garrett was murdered was Constable Andy Taylor who is now with the Toronto Police Service and Constable Christine Allen-Firth who is now with the Durham Regional Police Service.
Allen-Firth posted a message on her Facebook post: The reason I’m alive and the reason I live. 14 years ago Constable Chris Garrett #221 gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect his community and co workers. Chris saved countless lives including my own. Today we reflect and remember a true hero.
You were looking down on us this very day 7 years ago when you sent us an angel. Much like this very night 14 years ago, a rainy dark, gloomy night, it has rained every year since. A subtle reminder from you up above knowing you wouldn’t want any fuss made.
Hayley Mae Firth you are a true blessing and were most definitely sent by an angel. Your smile is contagious and your outgoing personality is adored by everyone you meet. You can light up a room or a strangers face with your kindness. Move mountains girl and reach for the stars. Being your mom is the biggest privilege, you have taught me so much. Happy 7th Birthday gorgeous.
Take a moment to reflect and be thankful to those who serve us everyday. Not a day goes by that you aren’t in our thoughts #221.”
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
