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TORONTO — A Toronto police officer who died in a crash while responding to a call was remembered Monday as a popular, caring young man who loved helping and protecting others.

Thousands of officers marched in a long procession to the memorial for Const. John Zivcic, including members of the Toronto force, RCMP, provincial police and many other forces from throughout the province and beyond.

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Bagpipes played as the 34-year-old officer’s casket was carried inside a packed hall at the Toronto Congress Centre.

Ontario Lt.-Gov. David Onley was among the first to pay tribute to Zivcic as a brave officer who gave his life in his service to the people of the province. Premier Kathleen Wynne also spoke, calling Zivcic “one of our best” who served “proudly and selflessly” as he took on the job of protecting the public.

Toronto police Chief Bill Blair described him as “a very fine young man” who was generous and compassionate, adding that his heart and other organs were donated to others after his death.