The funeral for a popular Surrey RCMP officer lost in the line of duty last week is scheduled to be held at the Langley Events Centre this afternoon (Tuesday).
Police are expecting thousands of colleagues, loved ones and members of the public to attend the event for Const. Adrian Oliver, who was killed in a motor vehicle collision on Tuesday, Nov. 13.
Oliver, 28, had been with the Surrey RCMP for more than three years. He was on duty when his unmarked police vehicle and a semi-trailer collided in the intersection of 64 Avenue and 148 Street in Newton.
RCMP Assistant Commissioner Craig Callens said it was an "extremely difficult and sad day for the RCMP," and extended condolences to Oliver's friends and family, including his mother, father, stepfather and two brothers.
Oliver's stepfather is also a serving member of the RCMP, as is one of his brothers, who is an officer in the Lower Mainland.
Callens said Oliver had been an RCMP member since late 2008, and was excited to follow in his stepfather's footsteps.
"Clearly it is a tragic day for the Oliver family and for the entire RCMP," Callens said.
RCMP Supt. Bill Fordy, officer in charge of the Surrey detachment, said Oliver was was heading back to the Surrey RCMP detachment on 56 Avenue and 144 Street at the end of his shift when the fatal crash occurred. The police vehicle was reportedly driving west on 64 Avenue while the transport truck was driving east. There is no indication Oliver's vehicle's lights or sirens were activated at the time.
The investigation continues with the oversight of the Vancouver Police Department.
Fordy called Oliver "an outstanding police officer, with a great attitude and commitment to serve others."
He said the primary concern right now is for Oliver's family and friends and said the RCMP is ensuring members and employees impacted by the death have the proper support.
Oliver's funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. at the Langley Event Centre, 7888 200 St. Parking is available at 80 Avenue and 202 Street.
Members of the public are invited to attend, said RCMP. However, seating priority will be given to Oliver’s family, friends, colleagues and those attending in uniform. The Langley Events Centre has seating for more than 5,500 people. Police and emergency personnel will be in full attendance and a march will take place before the funeral.
The service will be broadcast live at http://www.livestream.com/rcmpgrc