Family of Toronto police officer killed in Mississauga remember ‘larger than life’ Cst Andrew Hong

The family of Cst Andrew Hong, the Toronto police officer shot down in Mississauga yesterday afternoon, have released a statement remembering Hong as a “larger than life” man.

“Andrew was magnetic,” the statement released through the Toronto Police Association reads, “He was a man of steel on the outside with a warm teddy bear personality on the inside.”

“His personality was larger than life.”

On site with Chief @DerynRizzi, members of @MississaugaFES, Councillor @PatSaitoWard9, @ChiefBoyes and OPP today to honour and pay our respects to Cst. Andrew Hong. #Mississauga residents and fellow first responders grieve alongside his family, friends and colleagues. pic.twitter.com/avLMjCBEVx

— Bonnie Crombie 🇨🇦 (@BonnieCrombie) September 13, 2022

This life was cut tragically short September 12. Hong, 48 and a 22-year Toronto Police veteran, was in Mississauga on a joint training session with York and Peel Region officers.

He was on lunch break from training at the Tim Hortons around 2 p.m. While he sat alone at a table, the father of two was shot “execution-style” from behind in an “ambush attack.”

The gunman tried and failed to take Hong’s firearm. Ultimately he stole a Jeep Cherokee and fled the scene. Another person was shot and injured as the gunman fled.

The gunman was next spotted in Milton, where he opened fire at a MK Auto Repairs, on Bronte Rd. There he shot three people killing one, shop owner Shakeel Ashraf, 38, another father of two.

From there the gunman fled to Hamilton where he was later killed by police gunfire. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU), which investigates interactions with police involving injury or death, is currently investigating.

After the rampage ended, Toronto Police Chief James Ramer confirmed Hong’s identity in a press conference. Following the presser statements of grief poured forth from leaders and the law enforcement community.

We are grateful for the outpouring of support for our fellow fallen officer, Constable Andrew Hong’s family, friends, and co-workers.

Details of where to express your condolences &
other information will be posted soon at https://t.co/NtbjhKn3fJ & on our social media channels. pic.twitter.com/R9DHDDMLm3

— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) September 13, 2022

As Hong’s body was taken to the Coroner’s officer hundreds of police officer and first responders lined the road in silent vigil for Hong. Fellow members of the Motor Unit, which Hong “especially loved” being part of, escorted his body in a large motorcade.

Of these fellow officers, Hong’s family said, “He loved his police family and was so proud to be a member of the Toronto Police Service.”

Hong “was a practical joker and got along with everyone. His absence has left a gaping hole in the hearts of our family, the Police family and everyone who knew and loved Andrew.”

“We are overwhelmed with love and support and are asking for privacy at this time,” the statement concludes. Toronto Police will share details of Hong’s funeral in the coming days.