(January 3, 2022 – Toronto, Ontario) Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare issued the following statement sending condolences to the family and friends of Officer Grzegorz Pierzchala,  who was shot while responding to a vehicle in the ditch in Hagersville, Ontario, on December 27, 2022:

“On behalf of the Chiefs in Ontario, I send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Officer Grzegorz Pierzchala,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “And to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and First Nation Officers, as this senseless and heartbreaking loss of life has impacted many lives and communities in Ontario.”

“Violence against police officers in Canada continues to rise, and one tragic loss of life is too many. We need to improve our criminal justice, and our officers need support too. I call on the federal government to improve the criminal justice and the bail system. We must ensure offenders have adequate rehabilitation resources and bail conditions to ensure the safety of our communities and first responders.

Our prayers go out to Officer Pierzchala’s family and friends. Those seeking additional support are encouraged to reach out to the 24/7 Hope for Wellness Helpline by calling 1-855-242-3310.”

Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media Contact:

Genna Benson
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Policy and Communications Sector
Chiefs of Ontario
Cell: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org