The Peel Regional Police force is mourning the loss of one of its own – a constable Chief Mike Metcalf described as “the ideal recruit”.
Artem (James) Otchakovski died in hospital Tuesday night surrounded by his family after he suffered a critical head injury in a crash late Monday. The 36-year-old officer was on his way to assist a colleague in a non-emergency situation when his cruiser collided with another vehicle at Steeles and Airport Road around 11pm and ended up wrapped around a hydro pole.
Otchakovski was taken to a Brampton hospital and later transferred to Sunnybrook. He leaves behind his wife, Erin, and their three-year-old son Owen.
“We have suffered a great loss,” Metcalf said Wednesday.
“The coming days will be difficult for us as we prepare to pay tribute to a fine young officer who cared for his family and served his community with pride.”
The funeral will be held Tuesday at 1pm at the Hersey Centre.
Otchakovski joined the Peel force in 2008. Metcalf said he was a valuable asset as he spoke Hebrew, Russian and Ukrainian and brought significant life and business experience to his post.
Otchakovski worked as a chef in Moldova. He then emigrated to Israel where he worked in a hotel. In Canada, he worked for Brinks, where he met his wife, before joining the Peel force.
Metcalf said services are in place to help the officer’s family cope with their loss.
“They're devastated,” he said.
"Obviously Erin will never get over this."
The couple was married four years ago and the family lives in Barrie.
Metcalf refused to comment on details of the investigation and said, so far, no charges have been laid.
The other driver involved in the accident – a 22-year-old Brampton man – suffered a minor injury in the collision and was later released from hospital.
Investigators are appealing for witnesses and are asking anyone who saw what happened to call them at (905) 453-2121, ext. 3710 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
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Trust Fund Information
Bank: TD Canada Trust
Account Number: 0159-6529108
Cheque or direct deposits should be made out to "In Trust for the Family of James Otchakovski."