Update #5: Calgary police officer killed in the line of duty

We would like to start off by thanking everyone for the tremendous outpouring of support we’ve received during these difficult times.

Calgary police Chief Constable Mark Neufeld says, “As a Service, we cannot fully express how immensely grateful we are for the outpouring of community support we have received following the tragic loss of Sgt. Andrew Harnett. There is no doubt we are all feeling this loss, but please know this community support is helping us all navigate this difficult time. Knowing you are thinking of Andy, his family and our policing family, when you yourselves are dealing with all of the uncertainty and challenges of the past year, is comforting to say the least. We are proud to serve you and I am proud to lead our officers and support staff. Over the past 24 hours they have done a tremendous job in not only locating and charging those believed to be responsible for this senseless act, but have also continued to serve our community attending calls for help for those that are in need.”

Family Statement

As you can imagine, the Harnett family has been overwhelmed with the events of the last few days. When the family is ready, we will be sharing a statement from them, along with any additional photos they wish to share. In the meantime, we must ask everyone to please respect their privacy during this difficult time.

Blue Campaign

Many people have reached out to ask how they can help the family, and how they can show support during unusual times when we cannot gather. Several have begun a blue campaign in which blue ribbons are tied on homes and throughout communities, as well as displaying blue porch lights. It means the world to our officers to see these displays while they continue in their duties during this difficult time. Thank you to those who begun this campaign, and to those who have taken part.

Messages of Condolence

An email address has been established for those wishing to send messages of condolence to Sgt. Harnett’s family – condolences@calgarypolice.ca.

Investigative Update

The two accused have appeared before the Justice of the Peace, who has issued they remain in custody pending their next court appearance on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, for a bail hearing.

Now that this matter is before the courts, we will have no further information to provide publicly. Investigators are working hard behind the scenes to gather all available evidence about the events that transpired on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020. Anyone who has information about this case is encouraged to call the call Homicide Tip Line at 403-428-8877, or through Crime Stoppers anonymously through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

APP: "P3 Tips"

Case # 20516426/3828