Police funeral for OPP Const. Tarun Bali held Thursday in Mississauga
Posted June 15, 2026 5:43 am.
Last Updated June 18, 2026 3:09 pm.
An Ontario Provincial Police constable killed on the job last week is being remembered as the “glue” in his group of colleagues, as fellow officers, family members and dignitaries paid their final respects on Thursday.
A photo of Const. Tarun Bali as a young boy, beaming and saluting, was placed at the front of the packed Mississauga funeral venue as bagpipes rang out and uniformed OPP pallbearers carried his coffin down the aisle. Beneath the gleeful childhood photo is one of an adult Bali in uniform — the man the police force said it will remember as a proud Canadian who served with integrity and dedication.
The service began at the Mississauga Sports and Entertainment Centre and was attended by Const. Bali’s family, invited guests, OPP members, police and emergency services personnel, military representatives and dignitaries.
The OPP said the visitation and funeral service was not open to the general public but was livestreamed. Members of the public could also share messages of support and remembrance through the OPP’s online book of condolences.
Chief Supt. Karl Thomas, who was Bali’s regional commander, remembered him as “the glue holding the group together during every challenge.”
Thomas said the late officer’s service and courage will never be forgotten.
“There are no words that can fully ease your pain,” he said in an address to Bali’s wife and parents.
“But please know this: You’re not alone. You are surrounded by a policing family and a broader community that stands with you today and in the days ahead.”
Bali had “a genuine warmth that drew people in,” said Supt. Jon Dumond, recalling Bali’s willingness to work countless hours across 11 detachments in the province and his volunteer work with Peel Region victim services.
Hindu priests chanted in Sanskrit and offered final prayers for Bali’s soul, believed to be eternal. Attendees then rose to their feet and officers stood at attention as OPP Const. Richard Pauls sang ‘O Canada’ ahead of a moment of silence.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford told mourners that he had a heart-wrenching conversation with Bali’s widow.
Bali’s death is felt across the province, including the Brampton neighbourhood where he grew up and the places where his OPP “family” resides, the premier said.
“We can never properly repay the debt of gratitude that this province owes him,” Ford said, promising the late officer’s legacy will live on forever.
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Const. Bali was killed on June 9 after being struck by a vehicle while officers were conducting an investigation in Hearst, Ont., roughly 520 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, Ont. An 18‑year‑old male has been charged with first‑degree murder, dangerous driving and flight from police.
Just days later, Toronto police Const. Marc Pinizzotto, a member of the Emergency Task Force, was shot and killed during a warrant operation in North York.
A moment of silence was held for Const. Bali and Const. Pinizzotto at a Toronto Blue Jays game and a procession last week that drew first responders from across Ontario.
