Remembering fallen OPP Sgt. Eric Mueller

Police forces across Ontario bid farewell to slain OPP officer Eric Mueller. Thousands gathered to mourn and pay tribute at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa Thursday morning. Sgt. Mueller, 42, is being remembered as a hero.

WATCH: Police funeral for OPP Sgt. Eric Mueller happening at 11 a.m. in Ottawa

Mueller’s brother-in-law remembers the husband and father of two as a “gentle giant” but also a mentor with a passion. “Above all, Eric lived to protect those he cared for the most and although the manner of it was senseless, we try to take solace in knowing he died doing what he loved.”

Dignitaries in attendance include Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell and Premier Doug Ford. OPP commissioner Thomas Carrique handed Mueller’s family his casket’s flag and forage hat.

READ MORE: OPP officer dead, two others injured in shooting in eastern Ontario

During eulogies, his on-duty partner remembers Mueller with a big reputation, strong work ethic, and courageous in the line of duty.

Mueller and two other officers were shot during a disturbance call in the small town of Bourget, outside of Ottawa. Mueller died later that day in hospital, while the other two officers survived with injuries.

Carrique described the shooting as an “ambush” and 39-year-old Alain Bellefeuille is charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder charges. Carrique says “If our police officers, the very ones we rely upon for our safety and security are not safe, then who is?”

READ MORE: Man charged with 1st-degree murder in death of OPP officer

Mueller’s death marks the 10th time in eight months a Canadian officer was killed while on duty.