Grzegorz Pierzchala

On December 27th, 2022, Grzegorz Pierzchala, an OPP officer serving Haldimand County, was tragically killed in the line of duty. He was only 28 years old. He had wanted to be a police officer since he was five years old and was just 10 months into his career at the time of his death.

Before graduating from St. Joan of Arc Catholic High School, Greg made an enduring and positive impact. He earned several awards including senior athlete of the year after qualifying for OFSAA (Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association) in swimming and wrestling. He also competed in soccer, track and field, weight training and rowing. Greg went on to study at York University, where he continued his athletic pursuits as a member of the wrestling team.

Greg exemplified Catholic leadership in all aspects of his life and attended Mass at Holy Spirit Parish. He was thoughtful, considerate, kind, and followed his heart. He was committed to doing the right thing and was an inspiration and positive influence to all. He approached his life with incredible resolve, compassion, and joy. It is not surprising that he followed a career path of service to others.

Inspector Phil Carter, the OPP Haldimand County detachment commander called his death an "unimaginable and heartbreaking loss." "The people of Haldimand County, Mississaugas of the Credit, Six Nations never got to see Greg's bright promise grow into the impressive and exemplary law enforcement career that seemed almost predestined. But we saw glimpses of that future before he was taken from us," Carter said.