In a moving tribute to the valour and ultimate sacrifice of its law enforcement officers, the City of Edmonton has officially renamed two bridges in memory of Constable Travis Jordan and Constable Brett Ryan, who were tragically killed in the line of duty last year.
The two southwest bridges on Anthony Henday Drive, a 78-kilometre freeway that encircles Edmonton, are now dedicated in honour to the two fallen officers. The renaming will take effect immediately. The bridges will have memorial signs with the fallen officers’ names posted at the ends of them.
While both bridges are on the southwest segment of Anthony Henday Drive, the eastbound bridge will be dedicated to Constable Jordan, who was born in Digby, Nova Scotia. The westbound bridge towards Spruce Grove will be dedicated to Constable Ryan, who lived there.
Following the announcement, the Edmonton Police Service held a press conference.
Deputy Chief of the Community Policing Bureau, Darren Derko highlighted the importance of remembering the fallen officers.
“Memorializing these upstanding men will in no way make up for their loss, or the pain suffered in their absence. But it makes sure that every day Edmontonians will have a physical reminder of the sacrifice they made to keep our city safe,” he said.
Derko thanked the Alberta government for making the announcement possible, saying that it gave people hope.
Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen, who helped organize the process, said that the renaming is more than just a symbolic gesture.
“We will never forget their courage and their names. As Edmontonians cross these bridges every day, I hope that it serves as a reminder of the lasting impact and the ultimate sacrifice by these two heroes,” said Dreeshen.
Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis said that the two officers “personified the best qualities of what it means to be a police officer: integrity, compassion, and unflinching courage.”
He added that in addition to renaming the bridge, the Alberta government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and protecting those who serve on the front line.
“Let us remember Constable Travis Jordan and Constable Brett Ryan not only for how they died, but for how they lived. Let us draw inspiration from their courage, their compassion, and their unwavering commitment to the duties to their communities,” said Ellis.
The Chief of the Edmonton Police Service, Dale McFee said that risk is inherent in law enforcement, but losing someone never becomes easier.
“It’s our worst nightmare. It’s the worst call you never want to get,” said McFee.
“Time is the only thing that helps us heal. But when you lose two of your own, it’s not something you ever forget,” he added.
The two officers were murdered on March 16, 2023. McFee thanked the Alberta government for expediting the naming ceremony to bring it within proximity to the anniversary of the officers’ deaths.
Constable Jordan was 35 years old and an 8.5-year veteran of the Edmonton Police Service. Constable Ryan was 30 years old and had been with the Edmonton police for 5.5 years.
The last Edmonton city police officer killed before Constable Ryan and Constable Jordan was Constable Daniel Woodall in June 2015.