Det. John Park, father of 2, died of medical episode while on duty: Toronto police

A Toronto police officer died while on the job Thursday morning, the service says, with early evidence suggesting the officer experienced a medical episode while he was executing a search warrant. 

The officer, Det. John Park, was with the Toronto Police Service for 14 years, Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue said at a news conference Thursday afternoon. 

He leaves behind a wife and two young children, who are "understandably devastated by this," Pogue said. 

"There are no words to express the sorrow we feel right now," Pogue said. 

"This is every family's worst fear, when a loved one works as a police officer and does not come home safely after their shift." 

Pogue said the officer was helping execute a search warrant as part of an ongoing robbery investigation at a highrise on Steeles Avenue W. in North York at the time.

At this time, police have no evidence to suggest Park may have been exposed to narcotics at the scene, Pogue said. 

WATCH | Officer who died while on duty identified as Det. John Park:  

Deputy police chief says officer who died had a wife and 2 young kids

2 days ago

Duration 1:57

Det. John Park died after experiencing a medical episode while executing a search warrant in North York on Thursday morning, deputy chief Lauren Pogue confirmed.

The Toronto Police Association (TPA) said the operation was part of an investigation in 31 Division.

On Thursday afternoon, dozens of officers lined the streets outside the hospital where Park was pronounced dead. 

Clayton Campbell, president of the Toronto Police Association, said members are coming together to support Park's family. 

"It's devastating. It's just such a sad situation in the hospital right now."

Chow, Ford pay tribute to fallen officer

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said she was "heartbroken" by the officer's death, adding she has been in touch with Chief Myron Demkiw.

"I understand the circumstances are still being confirmed and investigated ... These are still early hours," Chow said.

"We deeply appreciate the work of our officers and the work they do every day for our city."

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he was "deeply saddened" to hear of the officer's death.

"My condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the officer, as well as all members of the [Toronto Police Service]," Ford said on X, formerly Twitter.