Charges laid in murder of OPP officer

OPP News Release

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ORILLIA - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) has laid charges in the murder of OPP Provincial Constable Vu Pham.

On Wednesday March 11, 2010, 70 year old Fred Preston of Sundridge, Ontario was charged with 1st Degree Murder for the death of Provincial Constable Pham and Attempted Murder in relation to a second officer. Preston remains in critical condition and in police custody in the London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus.

On Monday March 8, 2010 shortly after 10:00 am, Provincial Constable Pham responded to a call for service on North Line, Huron County, near Seaforth, Ontario. While stopping a vehicle, Provincial Constable Pham was shot and fatally wounded as he exited his police cruiser. A second OPP officer in close proximity located the suspect who was shot during the encounter after firing at the officer.

"The tragic death of Provincial Constable Pham has impacted us all and our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. I am proud of the response by our members to this incident and that charges have been brought against the person responsible, "said OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino.

The Province's Special Investigation Unit (SIU) is conducting a parallel investigation into the circumstances surrounding the injuries sustained by Preston. Further inquiries should be directed to SIU Communications at 416-622-2342.

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