The mother of Const. Marc Pinizzotto, the Toronto police officer fatally shot while executing a search warrant, says her family is devastated by the loss. Linda Pinizzotto described her son as an 'amazing son, brother, dad, husband' and a 'true gentleman' who loved helping others.
A Life of Service and Hockey
Marc Pinizzotto, 43, was an 18-year veteran of the Toronto Police Service, serving the last five years on the Emergency Task Force. Before joining the force, he played professional hockey in Europe for Thuringen EHC in Erfurt, Germany. He was also a dedicated hockey coach and father to 14-year-old twins.
His brothers Jason and Steve also played professional hockey, with Steve reaching the NHL for the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers. Their mother Linda, a prominent realtor and former hockey team general manager, was a constant supporter.
The Tragic Incident
The shooting occurred during a pre-dawn search warrant execution at 15 Martha Eaton Way in North York. Linda was driving to Sunnybrook Hospital when she learned of the shooting. Toronto Police arranged an escort to get her there, but the news was grim. Despite medical efforts, Const. Pinizzotto could not be saved.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw said, 'No words can capture the impact on Marc’s family, who expected him to come home today. We as a Service will support them and each other.'
Outpouring of Support
Flags have been lowered to half-mast, and the CN Tower will dim for five minutes each hour in his honor. Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her condolences, noting she knew the family personally. The entire community is mourning the loss of a respected officer.
Linda said, 'We are so torn apart.' She emphasized that while a killer may have taken her son, they cannot erase his legacy of love and service.
Const. Pinizzotto is survived by his wife, children, brothers, and mother. Funeral arrangements are pending.
