MONCTON — Mounties in southeastern New Brunswick have opened an investigation after a bronze maple leaf was taken from a monument that honours three Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers who were killed while on duty.
The missing piece was part of the display at The Honour Garden, a memorial in Moncton featuring life‑size statues of Constables Fabrice Gevaudan, David (Dave) Ross and Douglas (Doug) Larche. Police described the stolen item as a bronze maple leaf that formed one of several plaques surrounding the monument.
Police call theft ‘concerning and disappointing’
Inspector Jonathan White, speaking on behalf of the RCMP, said the memorial holds "tremendous significance" for the city and stressed the emotional weight of the theft.
"This memorial … stands as a lasting tribute to three of our fallen members who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their communities. The theft of this bronze plaque ... represents far more than a piece of metal. It is a symbol of remembrance, respect and gratitude."
White urged anyone with information to come forward to support the investigation.
Context: the 2014 killings and their aftermath
The three officers were killed in June 2014 when a Moncton resident, Justin Bourque, armed with a semi‑automatic rifle and a shotgun, ambushed police officers. Two other officers were wounded. The attack prompted a 29‑hour manhunt. Bourque was subsequently convicted and given a life sentence.
The monument at The Honour Garden was unveiled in Moncton in 2016 and has since served as a place of public mourning and annual remembrance for families, colleagues and residents of the city. The loss of any element of the memorial has been met with sadness across communities that mark the event as a defining and painful moment in recent local history.
Community impact and reaction
Local residents and veterans’ groups have described the memorial as a focal point for collective memory in both English‑ and French‑speaking neighbourhoods of the city. Moncton, which bridges New Brunswick’s two linguistic communities, has rallied around the site in years past for ceremonies and gatherings to honour the officers.
The removal of the bronze leaf has prompted expressions of disappointment from citizens who view the theft as an affront to the families of the deceased and to the community’s act of remembrance.
RCMP investigators did not provide details about the timing of the theft, the suspected method or the value of the stolen metal. They said inquiries are ongoing and any details that might aid the probe would be welcome.
- Stolen item: a bronze maple leaf plaque from The Honour Garden memorial
- Memorial commemorates: Constables Fabrice Gevaudan, David Ross and Douglas Larche
- Background incident: June 2014 shootings by Justin Bourque; three officers killed, two wounded; 29‑hour manhunt; Bourque convicted and sentenced to life
How the public can help
Police have asked people who may have seen suspicious activity near The Honour Garden to contact the RCMP. While authorities did not release a direct phone number in the initial statement, they indicated anyone with information should come forward to assist investigators.
Members of the public who visit the memorial are reminded of the site’s significance and encouraged to report anything they believe may be related to the theft. Community members also suggested keeping an eye on online marketplaces for any attempt to sell a distinctive commemorative bronze plaque.
What the monument represents
Beyond its physical elements, the memorial functions as a symbol of service and sacrifice for many in Moncton and across New Brunswick. The removal of even a small plaque has been characterised by officials as an act that affects civic memory and respect for those who serve. The RCMP’s appeal for information reflects not only an investigative priority but a desire to restore an important communal symbol.
| Officer | Role |
|---|---|
| Fabrice Gevaudan | Constable |
| David (Dave) Ross | Constable |
| Douglas (Doug) Larche | Constable |
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to contact their local RCMP detachment.
— Amélie Gagné, WE NEWS
