The 20th anniversary of the murder of Cobourg Police Service Const. Chris Garrett was marked on May 15, 2024. Garrett was killed in the line of duty in 2004 while responding to a reported robbery call at a former hospital. He was stabbed by an 18-year-old suspect, Troy Davey, who eventually confessed to planning to shoot officers during the incident. Garrett fired his gun, striking Davey in the leg before succumbing to his injuries. Davey was convicted of first-degree murder and Garrett left behind his wife Denise, two children, and five siblings.
Garrett’s family, friends, and colleagues gathered at the park named in his honor for a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of his death. The park features a memorial statue with two dozen steel birds in the shape of the letter ‘C,’ representing Garrett’s initials. His sister Nancy Ponica described him as “unforgettable” and expressed gratitude for the continued support shown by the community and Garrett’s fellow officers. Each visit to the park allows friends and family to learn more about Garrett’s life and the impact he had on those around him.
During the ceremony, Cobourg Police Service Chief Paul VandeGraaf spoke about the immeasurable gratitude owed to Garrett for his sacrifice. He acknowledged the impact of Garrett’s murder on the community and emphasized the importance of honoring his legacy. Garrett is one of two Cobourg police officers who have died in the line of duty, the other being Constable William Rourke who passed away in 1915. Both officers are memorialized on a wall inside the Cobourg police station.
VandeGraaf reflected on the ongoing trend of police officers losing their lives in the line of duty and stressed the importance of recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who serve the community. He noted that even one officer’s death is too many and urged everyone to appreciate the dedication and commitment of law enforcement officers. Ponica expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and Garrett’s colleagues, describing them as a caring and supportive family. She acknowledged the difficulty of moving on after Garrett’s death but emphasized the importance of remembering both the bad and good days.
The annual gathering at Garrett Memorial Park serves as a reminder of the impact Garrett had on his community and the lasting legacy he left behind. The park, dedicated to his memory, is a place where family, friends, and colleagues can come together to share stories and honor his life. The outpouring of support from the community and law enforcement community demonstrates the lasting impact of Garrett’s service and the ongoing appreciation for his sacrifice. As time passes, the memories of Const. Chris Garrett continue to be cherished, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
