Dupont Parkette renamed in Sgt. Ryan Russell’s honour

A city park has been renamed in honour of fallen Toronto Police officer Sgt. Ryan Russell.

Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair, Mayor Rob Ford and Coun. Adam Vaughan joined Russell’s family and friends for the ceremony at the Dupont Parkette at Avenue Road and Dupont Street on Friday afternoon.

Russell was killed Jan. 12 while trying to stop a man driving a stolen snowplow. The 35-year-old former member of the Guns and Gangs Task Force had been promoted to the rank of sergeant within 52 Division just six months before his death.

He is survived by his wife, Christine, and young son, Nolan.

“This morning Nolan said, ‘We are going to go see daddy’s park’ so he’s really excited to come here and play and this is going to be a special place for us to bring Nolan and remember his father,” Christine said.

“I am so grateful to every single person in this community, in this city, this country, in the world, for all the love and support.  It has made me stronger and I’m hoping that it’s going to get better and better.”

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