Greg O’Connor Death – The Bowmanville and Mississauga, Ontario, communities are mourning the unexpected death of Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Detective Greg O’Connor, a beloved and dedicated member of the force.
Det. O’Connor, who served in the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau and Organized Vehicle Crime Unit, was found deceased earlier this week, leaving a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues.
DRPS shared a heartfelt statement, expressing their grief:
“With broken hearts, we mourn the loss of DRPS Det. Greg O’Connor. With over 22 years of service with the Durham Regional Police, Det. O’Connor is remembered for his dedication to his coworkers and the community he served, for his sense of humor, and most admirably, for the devoted love he shared with his beloved wife and children.
We extend our sincerest condolences to Greg’s family and loved ones, to his friends and co-workers, and to all our DRPS family who are grieving this unmeasurable loss. Rest easy Greg. Until we meet again.”
Det. O’Connor’s career spanned over two decades of exemplary service, with significant contributions to both Durham Regional Police and Peel Regional Police. His roles included work in uniform patrol, the Break & Enter Unit, the Street Crime Gang Unit, and the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau. He rose through the ranks to become a Sergeant and later a Detective, earning widespread recognition for his skill and leadership.
Det. O’Connor’s expertise in auto crime investigations was unparalleled. He was a qualified Vehicle Examiner and Instructor on Vehicle Identification in Ontario and led several high-profile investigations, including Project High 5, Project Baijin, and Project GTA-affordable.
These investigations, many involving joint forces operations, set benchmarks for success in combating organized auto theft in the province. His contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including the Peel Regional Police Investigative Team Award in 2022 and the Police Officer of the Year Award by the Brampton Board of Trade in 2021.
Beyond his professional achievements, Det. O’Connor was deeply committed to community service. He chaired the Peel Regional Police Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and the Peel Police Polar Plunge, setting fundraising records, including an unprecedented $130,000 raised in 2023. His passion for supporting Special Olympics earned him the Award of Honour from the Law Enforcement Torch Run in June 2023.
Det. O’Connor was also a Canadian Director of the Northeast Chapter of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators and a respected presenter on vehicle crime investigations.
His death has sent shockwaves through law enforcement and the broader community. Det. O’Connor’s dedication, compassion, and leadership will be remembered as a lasting legacy. The loss of such a remarkable officer is deeply felt, and tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and the many lives he touched during his distinguished career.
Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be shared in the coming days as the community gathers to honor and celebrate the life of Detective Greg O’Connor.