Sheriff’s officer dies in collision with train

Manitoba’s premier says the “service and sacrifice” of a sheriff’s officer who died in a train collision near Portage la Prairie on Tuesday morning will “never be forgotten.”

RCMP were called to the collision between a van and the train on Road 40 West, west of Portage, on Tuesday at 8 a.m.

RCMP say it appears a Manitoba Sheriff Services van collided with the train, causing it to roll and land in the ditch.

The driver, a 28-year-old man from Portage, died at the scene, while a passenger received minor injuries and taken by paramedics to hospital as a precaution.

Premier Wab Kinew issued a statement confirming the victim was a sheriff’s officer.

Theofficers provide security at courthouses, transport prisoners between jails and court, and serve and execute certain government and court documents.

He said sheriffs put on their uniform every day, knowing their job is to protect others.

“They carry out that responsibility with courage, integrity and a deep commitment to keeping Manitobans safe. Their service makes a difference in communities across our province every single day,” said Kinew in the statement.

“Today, we mourn the loss of one of those dedicated sheriffs alongside their friends, family and coworkers. We are also thinking of the sheriff who was injured, and we wish them a full and quick recovery. Their service and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

RCMP, Canadian National Railway police and Manitoba government workplace safety officials are investigating the crash.

Kyle Ross, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union, said it’s important to find out what happened.

“Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and coworkers of these dedicated members. These sheriffs were performing vital work, keeping our justice system moving and our communities safe,” he said in a statement.

erik.pindera@freepress.mb.ca