City To Name Park After Fallen Officer

City council voted unanimously on Tuesday to rename a park in honour of slain Toronto police Sgt. Ryan Russell.

Councillor Adam Vaughan led the campaign to designate Dupont Parkette in the officer’s honour.

“I think it’s appropriate (for) someone who gave their life protecting residents of the city, but also in particular residents of this stretch of Avenue Road. We think it’s an appropriate tribute,” Vaughan told CityNews.

The green space at Avenue Road and Dupont Street lies in the northeast corner of Vaughan’s ward, Trinity-Spadina, and about 300 metres from where Sgt. Russell was killed by snowplow last month.

Richard Kachkar, 44, is accused of stealing the plow and driving into Sgt. Russell at Avenue and Davenport roads. Kachkar has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder.

Vaughan said Russell’s family supports the tribute.

 Friend and colleague, Insp. Howie Page, was also pleased with the idea.

“Ryan would be honoured and humbled that city council has done this on his behalf,” he said.

“I think it’s a great tribute to Ryan, a great tribute to the family, and also a great tribute to the men and women of the Toronto Police Service.”

The motion must also pass through the Toronto and East York Community Council, but that’s expected to be a formality.

Vaughan hopes to have an official re-naming ceremony this spring.

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