WATCH ABOVE: Amid the tragedy and immense loss, there’s been no shortage of support for the family of EPS Const. Woodall and the police. Eric Szeto has more.
EDMONTON – It was the first opportunity for members of the public to formally pay their respects to fallen Edmonton police Const. Daniel Woodall.
For four hours on Sunday, people were seen quietly going in and out of the First Memorial Funeral Services Harmony Chapel, where the public visitation was being held.
Woodall was killed in the line of duty Monday evening at a home in west Edmonton. He, along with several other officers, was there to make an arrest.
READ MORE: Who was fallen Edmonton police Const. Daniel Woodall?
“I just wanted to say goodbye to my friend,” said Denver Poburan, one of many people to attend the visitation Sunday.
Poburan said he trained in martial arts with Woodall and, understandably, this week has been a difficult one.
“I kept seeing his face everywhere,” Poburan said.
“Seeing all the blue ribbons everywhere… It’s really heart-warming that there’s so much support and love going around for the men and women who put their lives on the line.”
“It’s still hard, but it means a lot to see all the community back together and to see so much support going around for Const. Woodall’s family, for the members of Edmonton Police Services (EPS), and for all first responders.”
READ MORE: ‘We’re here for them’: ‘True Blue’ event shows support for Edmonton police
Poburan described Woodall as a “great guy to be around”, dedicated, very respectful and a role model.
“I want to do what I can to help honour his memory.”
The EPS Guard of Honour stood vigil over the closed casket during the public visitation.
Marg Fergusson worked as a civilian member of the EPS for 21 years. Paying her respects in this way was important to her.
“I just feel like he gave his life trying to keep us all safe and I feel so sad for his family and his little boys and his wife,” said Fergusson.
“I know he gave the ultimate sacrifice.”
“I don’t feel I can do enough to show my appreciation and I just hope that we all stand by our police and support the ones that he’s left behind and let them all know that we’re all very grateful for what they do.”
READ MORE: How to show your support for Woodall family, Edmonton police
This week, there has been a flood of support for the Woodall family and the Edmonton police. Blue ribbons have been hung around the city, the High Level Bridge was lit up in blue, books of condolence have been filled and fundraisers have been started to help the family.
“They leave their families to protect ours,” said Fergusson. “That’s just a tremendous thing.”
A full regimental funeral service will be held on Wednesday at the Shaw Conference Centre. Before the service, a procession will leave the Legislature and make its way to the centre.
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