Barrie Police are mourning the loss of one of their own. In a post on social media Thursday morning, police confirmed the death of Sergeant Brett Carleton. “Sgt. Carleton was a highly respected police officer whose commitment to his work touched many families during some of the hardest moments of their lives,” the police service said in the post. “He will forever be remembered as a valued member of the service.” The police service went on to offer support to his family and emphasized their need for privacy “during this incredibly difficult time.” According to the social media post, Carleton had been serving as an officer since 2000. The details around the death of Carleton have not been shared by police. Police chief reaction With flags at half staff behind him outside police headquarters, Chief Rich Johnston spoke to CTV News regarding the death of Carleton. When asked about the cause of death, Johnson said “Out of respect for the family, we’re here today to focus on Brett’s 26-year career of service to his community, so that’s what we’re going to talk about today.” A visibly emotional Johnston described the late Carleton as a passionate and dedicated member of the organization. A longtime officer with service, Carleton was involved in the investigation of some of Barrie’s highest profile cases. He was the voice of police in the case of the disappearance of Autumn Shaganash, a double homicide at an encampment in Barrie and the murder of April Dobson. “He was the officer you wanted on it,” Johnston said. “He was focused, meticulous, he brought those around him up, he was just a phenomenal detective,” Johnston said. Johnston went on to say the force was “reeling” from the loss of Carleton. “He led a life of impact and for the victims and the families of the victims that he dealt with, they know him and the quality of the character of the man.” “Brett was a good copper, he was friend, he’ll be missed,” Johnston said. Barrie Police Association Statement In a statement to CTV News, the Barrie Police Association said its members are “heartbroken and mourning the loss of our member Sgt. Brett Carleton.” “We are aware of speculation and rumours circulating on social media regarding the circumstances of Sgt. Carleton’s death,” the association said. “We want to be clear that the information being shared is inaccurate.” “Out of respect for his family, we ask the public refrain from sharing unconfirmed and inaccurate information and consider the privacy of his family, friends and colleagues as they grieve this tremendous loss,” the association added. Local reaction to Carleton’s death First responders from around Ontario have also reacted to the death of Carleton. “From our SSPS family to our BPS family, our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues,” South Simcoe Police said via a post on social media. “Sincere condolences extended to Sergeant Carleton’s family, friends, and colleagues at the Barrie Police Service,” said the OPP’s Veteran’s Association in a post. The Oakville Professional Firefighters Association also added to the conversation. “Sgt. Carleton’s dedication to his profession and his service to the community will not be forgotten,” the association in statement posted online.
