Landmark buildings across our city will this evening be lit up to honour the four Victoria Police officers whose lives were tragically taken on the Eastern Freeway, one year ago.
With today marking the 12-month anniversary of the deaths of Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Josh Prestney and Constable Glen Humphris, tonight's tribute recognises Victorians' collective and continued grief at their loss.
Flinders Street Station, the Bolte Bridge and the MCG will be among the locations lit up in Victoria Police's traditional blue.
A date for the State Memorial Service, dedicated to honouring the lives and service of these officers, has also been confirmed and will be held on National Police Remembrance Day, 29 September 2021.
A private service to commemorate the one-year anniversary will be held today at the Victorian Police Academy chapel.
Family members and invited guests will be in attendance, with the service also made available online for Victoria Police employees via the staff intranet.
Planning for the State Memorial Service later this year is currently underway and will be organised in consultation with the officers' families.
Details of this service will be shared in due course.
As stated by the Acting Premier James Merlino
"Twelve months ago, four families were permanently broken. I know I speak for all Victorians when I say our hearts are with them now, just as they were then."
"In lighting up our city's most famous landmarks, we continue to honour the legacy of those four officers - and the service of every member of Victoria Police."
As stated by Acting Minister for Police and Emergency Services Danny Pearson
"The Eastern Freeway tragedy was felt by all of us - but I understand just how deeply it was felt by the Victoria Police family."
"The State Memorial Service will serve as a fitting tribute to these officers and as an opportunity for all of us to pay our respects to these fallen heroes."
