York Regional Police officer killed in traffic collision

A 38-year-old York Regional Police (YRP) officer has been killed in a traffic collision this morning in Markham.

Const. Travis Gillespie was pronounced deceased at the scene of a collision involving his white Honda Accord and a Porsche Cayenne at Major Mackenzie Drive and Warden Avenue at about 6 a.m., Sept. 14. The driver of the Porsche, a 23-year-old Markham man, was transported to hospital.

“This is devastating news for all members of our organization,” said Chief Jim MacSween in a news release. “I offer my deepest condolences to Travis’ family, friends and colleagues. It’s never easy to lose a member and to have lost Travis so unexpectedly is very difficult.”

Const. Gillespie was sworn in as a police constable on April 29, 2020 and was assigned to Richmond Hill's #2 district uniform patrol. He is survived by his parents, loved ones and colleagues. Prior to joining York Regional Police, he worked as a Metrolinx/GO Transit special constable and had volunteered his time to Community Living and Primal MMA Academy. 

The investigation of the collision is being conducted by Peel Regional Police to ensure members of York Regional Police are not further traumatized by this incident, police said.

"YRP will be working with the York Regional Police Association to offer any and all support required to Const. Gillespie’s family over the coming days, weeks and months," police said.

Members of the peer support unit, working out the force's wellness bureau, are supporting members of our organization as they navigate this loss, police said.

Investigators are seeking witnesses to this collision. Anyone who has not yet spoken with police or who may have dash-cam footage or residential video surveillance of the collision is asked to come forward by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Today is another tragic day for policing in Ontario as we learned about the death of @YRP Constable Travis Gillespie who was killed on his way to work this morning. #BarriePolice wish to convey their condolences to his family, colleagues and members of the @YRP. pic.twitter.com/gdE1XYOmWJ

— Barrie Police (@BarriePolice) September 14, 2022