Condolences for Const. Garrett Styles

Const. Garrett Styles was killed in the line of duty on Tuesday June 28, 2011.

The 32-year-old officer leaves behind his wife, Melissa, and two small children.

Chief Matt Torigian, president of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

"Policing is a dangerous job but it's something that each one of us does because we want to be part of something that's bigger than ourselves, The nobility of public service, and in particular the nobility of policing, is what brings us to our jobs every day and we don't lose sight of that."

Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Chris Lewis

"Sadly, at this time, we stand together to share tremendous grief, and are reminded of the dangers we face each day in the performance of our duties."

MP Julian Fantino, former York Regional Police chief and OPP commissioner

"Knowing that Const. Styles tragically lost his life while serving the citizens of his community reminds us all of the dangers our front-line officers face while protecting the safety of others."

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty

"My deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and to the York Regional Police during this very difficult time. His death is a tremendous loss not only for those who loved him, but for all of us.

"We ask a lot of our police officers. We ask them to uphold our laws, protect our homes and, if need be, put our safety before theirs. Our police, and their families, agree to protect us and ours knowing that doing so may mean paying the ultimate sacrifice.

"Today, we're reminded once again of the depth of that selfless service."

Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak

"Ontario families rely on the men and women of our police forces to keep us safe every day. When we lose one of our officers, we're reminded of the risks they face as they work to keep us out of harm's way, and the rare combination of skill and bravery that each one brings to the job. This tragedy will be deeply felt by the entire community."

Andrea Horwath, Leader of the Ontario New Democrats

"This morning our province lost an outstanding police officer in the line of duty. Constable Garrett Styles is a credit to his fellow officers and the York Regional Police. He stands as an example to all Ontarians. We will remember his bravery and dedication. My heart goes out to his wife Melissa and their children. My prayers go out to his family and friends. On behalf of the Ontario New Democrats I express our sincere condolences."

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti

"On behalf of Markham Council, it is with great sadness that I extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of York Regional Police Officer Constable Garret Styles, a seven-year veteran, who lost his life in a tragic accident this morning. This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder to us all of the dangers that police officers face each and every day, even in the most routine duties. All in an effort to make our community safer for us."

Trust Fund:

A trust account in the name of Melissa Styles, widow of Const. Garrett Styles, has been established at:

Police Credit Union

18025 Yonge St.

Newmarket, ON

L3Y 8C9

The account number is 2000014 York Branch. Transit Number is 63612

Cheques should be made payable to: In Trust for Melissa Styles or Melissa Styles In Trust. Cheques can be mailed to the Newmarket Branch of the Police Credit Union as listed above. Deposits can be made directly at any branch of the Police Credit Union. Follow this link for Credit Union Locations.

Viewing and funeral details:

Viewing: 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday July 4, 2011. Jerrett Funeral Homes, 8088 Yonge St., Thornhill.

Funeral: 1 p.m. on Tuesday July 5, 2011. Ray Twinney Recreation Complex, 100 Eagle St. W., Newmarket