THOUSANDS HONOUR HERO SCOT
A BRAVE Scottish policeman killed after confronting a gunman in Canada has been laid to rest with full honours.
More than 12,000 people lined the streets to celebrate the life of Constable John Davidson, who died protecting the public.
The 53-year- old was buried with full honours during a ceremony in Abbotsford, British Columbia, on Sunday.
Canadian Mounted Police in full red uniform, officers on motorbikes and around 8,000 first responders took part in a twomile procession led by a riderless horse, a symbol of a fallen officer.
Mr Davidson, originally from Newcastleton, Roxburghshire, was the ‘first person in’ after a report of a possible vehicle theft and shooting in Abbotsford on November 6.
Mr Davidson responded and returned fire but was shot and died shortly after being taken to hospital. The suspect, Oscar Arfmann, 65, fled in a car but was arrested a short while later after a shootout. He has been charged with first degree murder and is due in court at the end of this month.
Mr Davidson’s funeral took place in a sports arena attended by 8,000 people.
He served with Northumbria Police for 12 years before moving to Canada in 2005, and won plaudits for his work in reducing teen deaths on the roads, for a campaign about the dangers of Ecstasy, and for catching drink-drivers.
The Canadian flag was draped over his casket during the service, along with a Northumbria Police helmet and a cap from the Canadian force. Bob Rich, head of Abbotsford police department, told the crowd: ‘When that shot rang out, evil won.’
Mr Davidson’s police partner, Renea Williams, said: ‘He was tough but more than fair. That was evident by the number of people I have seen shake his hand after getting a ticket.
‘For a man who hated guns and never became comfortable carrying a gun after coming over from the UK, he was one of the first to step in and intervene when a call of shots fired came in.’
Northumbria Police Temporary Chief Constable Winton Keenen presented a book of condolence, signed by former colleagues and friends, to Mr Davidson’s wife Denise and their children Fay, Dina and Drew.
He said: ‘John was a credit to the badge and devoted his time to the communities he served.’
Mr Davidson’s name is set to be added to Northumbria Police’s Memorial Garden.