STATEMENT by Chief Superintendent Graham de la Gorgendiere, Officer in Charge, Burnaby RCMP:
October 18, 2023 marks the one year anniversary of the tragic line of duty death of Burnaby RCMP Constable Shaelyn Yang.
Constable Yang’s death continues to affect all who knew and loved her. While this anniversary is painful beyond measure, it also allows us to pause and reflect on Constable Yang’s legacy; ensuring her life, sacrifice, and what she stood for as a person and as a police officer is never forgotten.
Constable Yang had a drive for excellence in all aspects of her life.
As a police officer, she had the ability to build connections with people from all backgrounds by showing them care and compassion.
There is no greater example of this than the work she did with vulnerable people in our community, including those experiencing homelessness, drug addiction, and mental illness.
She was genuine. She was kind. She was a truly outstanding police officer who made a positive impact on our community.
Over the past year, the Burnaby RCMP has experienced unwavering support from across the country. In our darkest moments, and in our deepest grief, we were never alone.
I would like to thank the public, as well as the partners and agencies who have supported our detachment.
I am also very proud of our staff, whose commitment to each other and to keeping our community safe has remained steadfast. While some days we may struggle, we continue to support one another.
I would also like to acknowledge Constable Yang’s family.
I have been inspired by their strength and I am grateful for their trust and the relationship we have built.
In September 2023, Constable Yang’s name was added to the Honour Roll and Memorial Wall at RCMP Depot Division in Regina, to the BC Law Enforcement Memorial in Victoria, and to the Canadian Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial in Ottawa.
Today, during a private ceremony, Constable Yang’s name was also unveiled on Burnaby RCMP’s own cairn and the Wall of Honour inside the detachment.
It is our hope that everyone who sees her name will be reminded of Constable Yang, and be inspired by her life, her bravery, and her service.
The Constable Shaelyn Yang Legacy Committee, which was established in early 2023, continues to honour Constable Yang in meaningful ways, such as the fundraiser barbeque held this summer to support Pacific Assistance Dogs (PADS), a cause supported by Constable Yang.
While this loss affects us every day, we continue to rely on each other for strength, honouring Constable Yang through our service to the community and through the care and compassion we show to one another and to those we serve.
She will never be forgotten.
