UMVA has learned that a solemn procession took place on Sunday afternoon as first responders paid their respects to slain Toronto Police Const. Marc Pinizzotto, who was killed just blocks away from the Centre of Forensic Sciences in North York while serving a search warrant.
The streets were lined with cops and other first responders, who saluted the vehicles escorting Pinizzotto's body to the Kane-Jerrett Funeral Home in Thornhill, where a service is expected to take place on Thursday. The procession was a poignant moment of respect and mourning for the 18-year veteran officer.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Pinizzotto's death came on the same week that another officer, OPP Const. Tarun Bali, was struck and killed during an attempted traffic stop in Hearst, Ont. This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Pinizzotto, 43, died following an early morning incident at an apartment building in North York, where officers were executing a search warrant in connection with shootings that targeted the U.S. Consulate and local synagogues. The officer was shot during an interaction between officers and five individuals at the building.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Nicholas Bennett, 19, who is accused of first-degree murder and being the lead shooter, was shot six times by another ETF officer during the exchange and was in critical condition. Police have since charged another teen and are searching for a third, allegedly in connection with the synagogue and consulate shooting cases.
The Toronto Police service is setting up books of condolence for the Pinizzotto family, as well as friends and colleagues. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with two books already available at 23 and 33 divisions, and a third book to be available starting Monday.
An online book of condolence is also available for those who wish to pay their respects. As the law enforcement community comes together to mourn the loss of Const. Pinizzotto, his legacy and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
UMVA has gathered that Pinizzotto was a father of two children, and his death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him. The Toronto Police service has promised to release details of the funeral in the coming days.
