Bronze maple leaf stolen from monument honouring slain New Brunswick RCMP officers

MONCTON - Police in southeastern New Brunswick are investigating the theft of a bronze maple leaf from a monument honoring three slain RCMP officers. The stolen plaque stood at The Honour Garden, which commemorates constables Fabrice Gevaudan, David Ross and Douglas Larche. Insp. Jonathan White stated that the bronze plaque holds "tremendous significance" to both police and residents of Moncton, and its theft is both concerning and disappointing.

The monument was installed following the June 2014 murder of the three officers by Justin Bourque, who was driven by paranoia and hatred for the government. Bourque shot the officers and wounded two others before a 29-hour manhunt ended with his capture. Bourque was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison. White emphasized that the memorial serves as a lasting tribute to the fallen officers and that the theft represents more than just a piece of metal; it symbolizes remembrance, respect and gratitude.