Family of Calgary police officer killed in the line of duty escorted to Hamilton airport

As a line of police cars and motorcycles escorted family members to the Hamilton airport on Monday the brother of Calgary police officer Sgt. Andrew Harnett, killed in the line of duty, said he was overwhelmed by the support.

"Ton of emotions," said eldest brother Jason Harnett, who was travelling to Calgary to "be in Andrew's presence."

"It was really touching."

Andrew Harnett—who was killed while on duty New Year's Eve—was born and raised in Hagersville, Ont.

"He was just a super guy," Harnett told reporters the airport Monday. 

"He really loved policing, and he loved his family. We're going to miss him terribly."

In a statement, the family described Andrew as loyal, giving and a "kid at heart," who was passionate about his job and loved life. He leaves behind his widow, Chelsea, who is pregnant with their first child.

Growing up in Hagersville, he was "surrounded by a loving family and a supportive community," said the statement.

Harnett loved sports and was a huge Hamilton Tiger-Cats fan, the statement said. He couldn't wait to go to the Grey Cup in Hamilton.

Brantford Police were escorting the family, "as a way to pay our respects," said Robin Matthews-Osmon, corporate communications manager for the Brantford Police Service. She said this was not a formal motorcade.

Officers lined the airport entranceway as family members walked in.

Other police services also joined the escort, including the Hamilton Police Service and Ontario Provincial Police. 

"As Sgt. Harnett had ties to several local police services, there were a number of different services from the area who became involved," said Matthews-Osmon said via email.

A spokesperson for the Calgary Police Service said officers would be meeting the family when they arrive at the airport.

Andrew Harnett was struck and dragged by a fleeing SUV during a traffic stop just before 11 p.m. Thursday.

Two teens have been charged with first-degree murder, after turning themselves in Friday.

"I'm glad we're through that hoop," said Jason Harnett of the arrests.

"My focus right now is going out there and being with Andrew's colleagues and friends and talking with them and sharing more memories." 

Harnett thanked all the people across Canada who sent texts and emails after his brother's death.