Police Remembrance Day: Fallen heroes Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold remembered at emotional vigil in Townsville
Lit by the soft glow of hundreds of candles, tears were shed as police in Townsville paused to remember two young constables cut down in their prime. See our photo gallery.
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Lit by the soft glow of hundreds of candles, tears were shed as police in Townsville paused to remember two young constables cut down in their prime.
Candles were lit for Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold, who were tragically gunned down in the line of duty at an emotional Police Remembrance Day vigil held in Townsville on Thursday.
The early-career constables were murdered in cold blood at a property in Wains Rd, Wieambilla, on December 12 last year.
It was a tragedy that hit close to home for many officers in Townsville who knew Constable McCrow as a dear friend and squad member from her time at the Townsville Police Academy.
Among them was Constable Brendan Bellchambers who read out the police ode as crowds at The Strand Rockpool fell silent, many holding small blue candles in their hands.
“Rest in peace friend and colleague, for the sun has now set,” he said.
“We will remember.”
Senior Seargent Rebbeca Tucker, who watched over Constable McCrow’s growth at the academy as one of her facilitators, said the pain of the loss was still so fresh for many of them.
Police chaplain Glenn Louttit said every day officers protecting our communities go to work not knowing how it will end for them.
“They expect to be able to go home at the end of their shift to their families, to their friends but some times this does not happen,” he said.
“Some times they get caught up in disputes or altercations that can unfortunately end tragically.”
The vigil concluded after dozens of flowers and wreaths were laid around a table where framed pictures of Constable McCrow and Arnold were placed, illuminated by candlelight.
Deputy Commissioner Cameron Harsley said the day served as a testament to the enduring commitment of Queensland’s police personnel since 1861.
“We stand with the families who have suffered the loss of a loved one in service to our great state,” Deputy Commissioner Harsley said.
“Our police community has felt tremendous loss with the tragic deaths of Constables Arnold and McCrow, and it is critical that we continue to support one another as we encounter milestones like this.
“Tonight, we paused to acknowledge not just the sacrifice of officers who have lost their lives on duty, but also their families, friends and colleagues who continue to feel the loss of their loved ones every day.
“As we reflect on the past, we also look forward to a safer future, where the memory of our fallen officers continues to inspire the dedication and bravery of those who protect and serve Queensland.”
Originally published as Police Remembrance Day: Fallen heroes Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold remembered at emotional vigil in Townsville
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