Thousands gather to mourn slain officer

As reported on this morning’s newscast, thousands will gather in Ottawa today for the funeral of Ottawa Police Constable Ireneusz ‘Eric” Czapnik.

Czapnik died Dec 29th after being stabbed in a hospital parking lot. The father of four was 51.

After his death, his family had this to say:

Eric, who worked for 3 years as an Ottawa police officer, was a proud Polish Canadian who came to Canada in 1990. He was an engaged and dedicated police officer who truly enjoyed working in the community. He was a proud officer following in the footsteps of his father who was also an officer for over 30 years in Poland.

Although it’s been 26 years since the last officer died in the line of duty in this city, Ottawa Citizen columnist Randall Denley thinks the career takes a heavy toll every day.

CTV will air memorial coverage beginning at 1:00, in English, French and Polish. Speakers will include Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty, Ottawa Police Chief Vern White and family members.

The Ottawa Police department will provide a live web-cast here.