Members of the Ottawa Police Service are mourning the unexpected death of veteran patrol sergeant Robert Cleroux, whose passing Friday night has deeply affected colleagues and the wider law enforcement community in Ottawa.
According to the Ottawa Police Association, Sgt. Cleroux died in what officials described as a suicide. The news has left fellow officers and community members shocked as they remember a respected officer who spent nearly three decades serving and protecting the city.
Association president Matthew Cox shared a statement Saturday expressing condolences and reflecting on Cleroux’s legacy within the department. “Sgt. Robert Cleroux was known to most as ‘Bobby’ and was a hard-working police officer who cared deeply about his colleagues and keeping the community safe,” Cox said. “He loved being a police officer.”
Cleroux served with the Ottawa Police Service for approximately 28 years, dedicating much of his career to patrol duties and frontline service. Officers who worked alongside him described him as a committed professional who took pride in his role and consistently looked out for fellow members of the force.
Beyond the badge, Cleroux was remembered by friends and colleagues as a devoted family man. Cox described him as a friend, colleague, husband, and father. He is survived by his wife and two daughters, who are now at the center of the community’s thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
Authorities confirmed that the incident did not occur while Cleroux was on duty, and officials emphasized that it was unrelated to any police operation or emergency call. Because the death involved a member of the Ottawa Police Service, the investigation has been assigned to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), which handles such cases as part of standard procedure to ensure an independent review.
In a brief statement released Saturday, Ottawa police said the death is not believed to be suspicious, though the OPP continues to review the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Officials have not released further details about the incident out of respect for the family and ongoing investigative processes.
The sudden loss has been particularly difficult for members of the police service who worked closely with Cleroux over the years. In response, the Ottawa Police Association and the Ottawa Police Service have activated internal wellness and peer-support resources to assist officers and staff coping with the grief.
Cox said the association is working closely with the service’s wellness team to ensure that Cleroux’s family and colleagues receive the support they need. Programs focused on resilience and mental health have already been mobilized to help members process the loss and support one another during this challenging time.
“This is difficult news for our Service,” the Ottawa Police Service said in its statement. “Our hearts are with his family, friends and colleagues and supports are being put in place for them and all members affected by this loss.”
Cleroux’s passing highlights the emotional and psychological pressures that can accompany careers in emergency services. Police organizations across Canada have increasingly focused on officer wellness, recognizing the importance of mental health support for those who work in high-stress public safety roles.
As the Ottawa police community continues to grieve, many officers are remembering Sgt. Robert Cleroux not only for his years of dedicated service but also for the relationships he built throughout his career. Friends and colleagues say his commitment to protecting the public and supporting fellow officers will not be forgotten.
For those in Canada who need help or support, confidential assistance is available 24 hours a day through the 988 suicide crisis helpline, which can be reached by phone or text. The service connects individuals with trained counselors who can provide immediate support and guidance.
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