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A provincial police constable killed in the line of duty near Hearst is being remembered as a “selfless” and “courageous” officer whose death has left communities across Ontario and beyond grieving.
“He was a young man who put himself in harm’s way to keep the public safe,” said Patrick Brown, mayor of Brampton, where Const. Tarun Bali was raised and still has family.
Brown said Bali, 29, had volunteered for a backfill assignment in northern Ontario to help police services during staffing shortages. On Tuesday, the officer, who had been with the OPP for 2½ years, was seriously injured during an investigation near Hearst and later died.
Justin Veronneau, 18, of Hearst has been charged with first-degree murder and several related offences, including dangerous driving and resisting arrest, OPP said Wednesday.
Officers were attempting to arrest him after he’d escaped from a hospital where he was being assessed under the Mental Health Act when Bali was struck by a vehicle, according to the OPP. The accused is scheduled for a court hearing on June 24.
The force’s Criminal Investigation Branch is investigating the circumstances surrounding Bali’s death, alongside the Office of the Chief Coroner and Ontario Forensic Pathology Service.
Flags lowered to half-mast
Brown, noting Bali’s deep ties to Brampton, said the officer’s family described him as “‘courageous, selfless'” and someone who “‘just wanted to protect the public.'”
The mayor said he has spoken with provincial officials, including Solicitor General Michael Kerzner and Premier Doug Ford, about plans to honour Bali. A memorial service is expected in the coming days.
Flags on federal buildings in Ontario, except for the Peace Tower in Ottawa, are being lowered to half-mast from Wednesday through sunset Monday.
Brown confirmed Brampton has lowered flags in Bali’s memory.
“The entire policing community across the country is grieving today at this senseless loss. There are no words.”
In Hearst, Mayor Roger Sigouin said the town has been left stunned, describing what happened as a shock for a small, close-knit community with a population of about 5,000.
“It’s not something you want to hear, something you don’t want to go through,” Sigouin said. “It’s a big shock for everyone.”
He said the town has little experience with line-of-duty police deaths and he plans to check in with community members over the coming days.
Support teams available to officers
Bali’s colleagues described him as “a perfect gentleman” who was well respected in the police force and the community, said Scott Mills, a spokesperson for the Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA).
“He was endearing to anyone that he met.”
Mills said the response from the policing community has been overwhelming, with agencies across Canada and internationally reaching out to offer support.
“Losing a police officer in the line of duty, killed in the line of duty, is the absolute worst nightmare for any police member and for any family member of a police officer.
“It’s something that you’re scared of, something that’s always in the back of your mind. When it happens, the feeling is just unbelievable sadness. You can’t even function anymore.”
Mills said the association is in contact with Bali’s family and support teams are being made available, including 24/7 mental health resources for officers impacted by the loss.
The City of Kitchener, where Bali also had ties, was among other municipalities offering condolences.
Mayor Berry Vrbanovic called Bali “a valued member” of Kitchener’s bylaw enforcement team from 2021 to 2023 before joining the OPP.
“Tarun’s passing is being met with sadness, but he will be fondly remembered by his Kitchener colleagues for his strong work ethic, positive attitude, infectious smile, and warm and approachable personality.
“Tarun made a lasting impression on those around him. and his kindness and dedication will not be forgotten.”
Vrbanovic also said flags at all city buildings will be lowered until Bali’s memorial service.
