It came as a sudden announcement, on the same day she officially opened the force’s new headquarters and museum.

Peel Regional Police Chief Jennifer Evans is retiring, leaving many of the more than 2,000 police officers who call her boss, shocked and bewildered.

“This came out of nowhere, really,” said a high-ranking officer, who asked not to be named. “I thought she wanted to see the (strategic) plan right through. We're all a little surprised.”

Evans, whose been Peel’s top cop since 2012, signed an extension last year that was supposed to see her stay on as police chief until next fall.

However, Evans announced her retirement, slated for January 2019, to the Police Services Board and later in an email to the rank and file Friday afternoon (Oct. 12).

“Today I notified the Police Services Board of my intent to retire,” stated the email, obtained by The News. “For 35 years I have proudly served the residents of Peel Region as a police officer, including six years as your Chief of Police. I continue to be inspired by the hard work and dedication of the men and women of Peel Regional Police and I firmly believe that we are the best police service in the country because of the people who work here.”

Evans said in the email her last working day is Jan. 11, 2019.

Evans has yet to be reached for comment.

The News has also reached out to members of the Police Services Board for comment, but has yet to get a response.

Evans’ tenure at the top has not come without controversy.