Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 27, 2016 (RSCNPF): Police Officers, friends, and the community came together Saturday evening (July 23) at a candlelight vigil to pay tribute and remember the life of Police Constable Brian J. Pacquette.
Police Constable Pacquette passed away on Monday, July 18 while undergoing treatment for injuries sustained while performing his duty.
The candlelight vigil began at 6.00pm with a procession from the location where he was injured and made its way to the grounds of Police Training Complex. A service of prayer and songs was punctuated by remarks of reflection on the life of Police Constable Pacquette.
Commissioner of Police Mr. Ian M. Queeley spoke of Pacquette’s dedication to the Police Service, and his steadfast commitment to serve others. Members of his training class spoke fondly of their fellow officer, they spoke of his love for fishing. Assistant Commissioner James, was one of his instructors and underscored that love for fishing, by sharing that when Pacquette reported for training, he came with his suitcase, and a spear fishing gun in tow.
Reflections were also given by past supervisors and friends. Superintendent Cromwell Henry reminisced and shared a story of Pacquette’s bravery while serving at the Cayon Police Station. He said, “it was not uncommon for Pacquette to patrol in the ‘hotspots’ singlehandedly” and engage those known for run ins with the law, and added, “it was that bravery that won him the respect of the ‘bad boys’ and citizens of Cayon.”
Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris told the gathering, the Nation mourns with the Pacquette family and the Police Force. He noted, Police Constable Pacquette lived a life of service; his fellow officers speak of his bravery and his commitment to duty, his friends speak of his selflessness and willingness to help others, and those in the community speak of a Police Officer who served with integrity and fairness.”
Arrangements are currently being made by the family for the funeral of Police Constable No. 787 Brian J. Pacquette in his home country of Dominica on August 9.