Bridge to be named in honour of John Atkinson

Span over Herb Gray Parkway to be renamed after officer slain in 2006

The dedication of a bridge in honour of slain officer John Atkinson is one of several events planned this year as the Windsor Police Service celebrates its 150th anniversary.

“It’ll trigger a lot of emotions that day,” said Supt. Ed Hickey. “It’s something that typically has been reserved for the OPP, the bridges, and we’ve got the opportunity to dedicate one to John. So it’s quite dear to our hearts.”

Hickey said origins of the Windsor Police Service stretch back to 1867 with the swearing-in of a chief constable and three special constables. Police will have a week of celebrations to mark the anniversary starting May 1 to coincide with Police Week.

There will be a police memorial mass and VIP luncheon on May 1. The following day will bring a parade and community barbecue along with equipment displays and demonstrations outside police headquarters.

There will also be tours of the police station. A gala rewarding acts of heroism will take place May 3, followed of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics the next day.

The week of events will wrap up May 5, when the St. Clair College Drive bridge spanning the Herb Gray Parkway is renamed in honour of Const. John Atkinson. The 14-year police veteran was shot and killed in the line of duty by a drug dealer on May 5, 2006.

From May 1 to June 30, there will also be a Windsor Police Service historical exhibit at the Art Gallery of Windsor. Police have collected artifacts including pictures, memorabilia and old badges, but they’re looking for more.

“We’re certainly going to put it out to the public that anybody who has any historical pictures or memorabilia or equipment from years past that want to share it with us, they’re more than welcome to get a hold of us,” said Hickey. “We’ll put it on display in museum.”