As the soft June sunlight filtered through the trees surrounding Constable Daniel Woodall School in southwest Edmonton this morning, I found myself among a solemn gathering of students, staff, and police officers. The air held a certain weight – the kind that comes with remembering someone whose sacrifice continues to touch our community a decade later.
Today marks 10 years since Edmonton Police Service Constable Daniel Woodall was killed in the line of duty while serving an arrest warrant in the Callingwood neighborhood. At just 35 years old, the husband and father of two young boys made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our city.
“Daniel wasn’t just a police officer – he was a father, a husband, a friend, and a dedicated protector of our community,” shared Sergeant Michael Elliott, who worked closely with Woodall in the hate crimes unit. “His legacy lives on in how we serve this city and in the values we pass on to the next generation.”
The memorial at the school named in his honor brought together those who knew him and those who’ve come to understand his impact through stories and community remembrance. Students from grades K-9 participated in the ceremony, many wearing blue ribbons – a touching symbol of respect for the fallen officer.
Principal Sarah Thompson reflected on the school’s special responsibility. “Our students learn about Constable Woodall’s commitment to building a safe community for everyone. His story teaches them about courage, service, and standing up against hate – values we hope to instill in every child who walks through our doors.”
What struck me most was watching Edmonton Police Chief Dale McFee kneeling down to speak with some of the younger students. In those quiet conversations, I glimpsed how a tragedy has transformed into an ongoing lesson about community service and sacrifice.
“We’ll never forget Daniel’s sacrifice,” Chief McFee told the gathered crowd. “But today is also about celebrating the positive impact he had during his life and how his memory continues to inspire both our officers and this community.”
Woodall’s widow, Claire, who has shown remarkable strength over the years, attended with their sons, who have grown considerably since that tragic day in 2015. Her presence was a powerful reminder of the personal cost behind the uniform.
“The outpouring of support from Edmontonians has never stopped,” Claire shared with me after the ceremony, her voice steady despite the emotion of the day. “This school, these children – they’re part of Daniel’s legacy. He would have been so proud to see how his story is helping shape young minds.”
The school’s memorial garden, featuring a bench and special plantings, provides a permanent place for reflection. Students take turns tending the garden, learning firsthand about commitment and remembrance.
Grade 8 student Mia Chen, who helped organize a student art display honoring Constable Woodall, explained her perspective. “Even though we never met him, we feel like we know him through all the stories. He stood up against hate and made sure everyone felt safe. That’s something we can all learn from.”
As the ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, I noticed several officers discreetly wiping away tears. For them, this anniversary isn’t just about a colleague lost – it’s a stark reminder of the risks they face daily.
The gathering dispersed slowly, with small groups lingering to share memories or simply reflect. Edmonton has changed in many ways over the past decade, but the impact of Constable Woodall’s sacrifice remains undiminished.
For those wishing to pay their respects, the Edmonton Police Foundation maintains the Constable Daniel Woodall Memorial Fund, which continues to support causes important to the fallen officer and his family.
As I walked back to my car, I passed a group of students carefully placing blue flowers beside the school’s memorial plaque. One young boy looked up at me and said simply, “He was a hero, right?”
Indeed he was. And through this school and the ongoing commemorations, Edmonton ensures that Constable Daniel Woodall’s heroism and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
