Notice of Passing – VPD Constable 2359 Peter Da Silva

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I must notify you of the death of Constable 2359 Peter Da Silva. Pete leaves behind his wife Belinda, their two teenaged daughters –Taylor and Ava, other dear family members and many close friends within the VPD.

Tragically and unexpectedly, Pete suffered a medical emergency and collapsed this morning while on duty at 2120 Cambie Street. Pete was tended to by his colleagues from the Emergency Response Team (ERT) – Grey Squad, including Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) trained members. In addition, Pete was treated by Vancouver Fire Rescue Services firefighters, Emergency Health Services paramedics and VPD’s medical advisor, Dr. Erik Vu. Everyone worked valiantly to ensure everything that could be done to save Pete, was done.  Sadly, despite these great efforts, Pete passed away.

Pete was an exceptional member of the VPD for more than 16 years. After joining the VPD in 2004, his first assignment was in the Beat Enforcement Team. In 2010, Pete began a seven-year tour as a member of the Emergency Response Team’s Blue Squad. He then served for three years on secondment with the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) Uniform Gang Enforcement Team. Just recently, in March 2020, Pete transferred back to ERT where he was an integral member of Grey Squad.

Pete’s courage and dedication resulted in him being recognized with numerous awards including three Chief Constable commendations, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (pictured above – being presented by former Premier Christy Clark), and the Award of Valour – the highest award for police officers in British Columbia that recognizes exceptional acts of bravery where members place themselves at substantial risk of serious injury in order to protect or save others.

Understandably, this sudden and tragic news will cause each of us to experience a wide range of emotions. I ask you to please pay close attention to your emotional well-being and the well-being of your colleagues and friends.

Sergeant Major S. (Sebastien) LAVOIE

Royal Canadian Mounted Police/ Gendarmerie Royale du Canada

Office of the Commanding Officer – “E” Division/Bureau du Commandant – Division “E”

14200 Green Timbers Way, Mailstop #308 Surrey, British Columbia V3T 6P3

Office landline: 778-290-5067

Work Cell: 236-330-4278