The heartbroken families of Queensland Police Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow, who were tragically gunned down whilst on duty in December last year, have released a joint statement on National Police Remembrance Day today.
Members of both officers’ families will today attend a national commemoration service in Canberra alongside Commissioner Katrina Carroll.
They released the following statement to media overnight:
Matthew and Rachel epitomised what it meant to be a police officer. Bright, brave, thoughtful and kind. Always putting others before themselves. Outside of work, they were loyal friends, full of laughter, a devoted daughter and dedicated son – they impacted the lives of everyone around them.
Every day, our families deeply miss their presence, and our love and pride in both Matthew and Rachel will never waver.
This National Police Remembrance Day, our families would like to extend our profound gratitude to every person who has shown kindness since December 12, 2022, the evil day our worlds shattered, and lives changed forever.
We want to thank local, state, national and international; people, groups, clubs, services, businesses and organisations for their support.
The messages, cards, flowers, fundraising and many other items and gestures of remembrance, are immensely appreciated.
Our thoughts and heartfelt empathy is also with all police families struggling with the loss of their loved one.
There are no words to express the pain, but we stand with you in remembering them today and every day.
We would also like to express our appreciation for the understanding and compassion shown, as we respectfully request privacy as our families continue to grieve.
May Matthew and Rachel be remembered for their generous, loving and respected lives and the legacy they leave.
With Honour They Served.
