Officers from Halton, Hamilton honoured with highest provincial award for bravery

Two Halton police officers have received recognition for their bravery in helping subdue an armed assailant on a deadly rampage.

Const. Lance Broderick and Const. Dan Pinkney of the Halton Regional Police, along with Det.-Sgt. Sara Beck and Det. Robert Di Ianni of the Hamilton Police Service, all received the 2023 Ontario Medal for Police Bravery.

The incident for which they’re being recognized occurred Sept. 12, 2022, when Toronto Police Const. Andrew Hong was shot and killed at a coffee shop in Mississauga.

The assailant carjacked a vehicle, shooting the driver. He fled to an auto repair shop where he shot three more people, killing two. He then travelled to Hamilton, where Hamilton officers Beck and Di Ianni confronted him at the Hamilton Cemetery.

The assailant opened fire and they rushed to find cover and secure the situation.

Halton Tactical Rescue Unit officers Broderick and Pinkney heard the gunfight and immediately rushed to help. Together, the four officers subdued the suspect, preventing further harm, and administered first aid until emergency medical services arrived.

Videos

Read More

“The courage these exceptional police officers displayed is truly remarkable,” said Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “Each one of the recipients has gone well above and beyond their duties, and we are proud to recognize the impact of their selfless service on their communities and on our province.”

Several other officers and firefighters from around the province were also recognized with the province’s highest honour, which is awarded to police officers and firefighters who have demonstrated great courage in risking their lives to save the lives of others.

“Ontario is fortunate to be home to the best police officers and firefighters in the country,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

“Recognizing these individuals with medals for bravery is a privilege and a great honour. Their work is an inspiration to us all, and on behalf of the people of Ontario, I thank them for their dedication to their communities and their extraordinary acts of heroism.”

Since the program starter, 333 Ontario Medals for Police Bravery and 302 Ontario Medals for Firefighter Bravery have been awarded.

Medal recipients are determined by an independent body of citizens from the firefighting and policing communities representing all regions of Ontario.