A POLICE officer who was originally from Hawick has been shot dead while on duty in Canada. 

Constable John Davidson served with Northumbria Police in England between 1993 to 2005 as a 24/7 response officer and as a motor patrols officer, before moving to Canada with his family. 

The 53-year-old was killed after trying to stop a gunman on Monday, November 6.

The gunman had opened fire at a shopping centre car park in the city of Abbotsford, around 45 miles west of Vancouver. 

He leaves behind a wife and three children.

Acting Chief Constable Winton Keenen from Northumbria Police said: “We were very saddened to learn of the death of our former colleague who died bravely in the line of duty while serving as an officer in Abbotsford, Canada.

“Our thoughts are very much with his family, friends and former colleagues at this difficult time.”

Mr Keenen added: “Many of our officers who knew John well during his career with us and kept in touch with him over the ensuing years are shocked by the events in Canada.

“We all want to express our sincere condolences to his family at this tragic news.”