Police report that Const. Jennifer Kovach, 26, was travelling north on Imperial Road South just north of the West End Community Centre at around 12:30 a.m. when her cruiser crossed the centre line and struck a southbound Guelph Transit bus.
Kovach, a Guelph native, was rushed to Guelph General Hospital but was pronounced dead. The 26-year-old’s next of kin have been notified.
Kovach is the daughter of longtime Guelph city councilor and former local Conservative federal election candidate Gloria Kovach and was a graduate of Centennial CVI high school.
Roads were slick at the time from a dusting of snow earlier in the evening and dropping temperatures.
Units from the Guelph Police Service, Guelph Wellington Paramedics and the Guelph Fire Department attended the scene. Both drivers were alone in their vehicles.
The driver of the bus was transported to Guelph General and treated for minor injuries and released. There were no passengers on the bus at the time.
Police Chief Bryan Larkin has scheduled a press conference at the police station for 1 p.m. Thursday.
Guelph Mayor Karen Farbridge issued a statement mid-morning.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to Councillor Gloria Kovach, Constable Kovach’s mother, and their family, who have lost a loved one this morning. There are no words that can adequately express our sorrow over their tragic loss,” the statement said.
“We also recognize this is a very difficult time for our Guelph Police Service who have lost a member of their service. We would like to express our gratitude for their brave service, and assure them that Constable Kovach will always be remembered for her sacrifice to keep our community safe.”
Condolences poured in from far and wide.
“I am heartbroken at the tragic loss of Cst. JenniferKovach. My condolences and prayers are with her family,” wrote Guelph MP Frank Valeriote.
“It is with great sadness that I have learned of the death of Guelph police officer Jennifer Kovach. I offer our condolences to her family,” said Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley.
Police are continuing the investigation with the forensic identification unit and the coroner’s office. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Const. Kaut at 519-824-1212, ext. 7480.
Source: GuelphMercury.com