Editor's note: The original version of this story contained incorrect information about the location of the collision provided by OPP.
York Regional Police is mourning the loss of a veteran of the force who died while off-duty in a motorcycle collision in Chatsworth on July 23.
Staff Sgt. Craig Heatley succumbed to injuries received in the collision, according to York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween.
"This is a devastating and unexpected loss for all of Craig’s family, friends and platoon mates," MacSween said on social media.
Heatley had served the force for 31 years, working in criminal investigations, academics and auto recovery, MacSween said. He most recently worked in uniform patrol at the Vaughan district.
Grey Bruce OPP reported responding to a collision between a motorcycle and SUV on Highway 6-10 at about 11:30 a.m.
The OPP has now identified the driver of the motorcycle as Craig Heatley, 55, of Bradford-West Gwillimbury. The investigation is ongoing.
MacSween said Heatley's wife was also injured and is in serious but stable condition.
York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson extended his condolences.
"The loss of a member of our police service is a loss to the whole community," Emmerson said. "I join the residents of York Region, York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween and our men and women in uniform in celebrating the life and mourning the loss of a dedicated and hard-working member of our police force."
Emmerson added flags at York Region's Administrative Centre will remain lowered to half-mast in honour of Heatley.
Several other police forces and officers also made statements of support.
"We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Staff Sergeant Craig Heatley, and to all who have been affected by his passing," Peel Regional Police said. "We are keeping all of them, and all members of York Regional Police in our thoughts."
"Craig was both a valued York Regional Police member and dear friend," MacSween said. "He will be remembered for his jovial personality, sense of humour and passion for policing."
MacSween said York Regional Police would work with the York Regional Police Association to support Heatley's family and colleagues.
