The community of Portage la Prairie is grieving the devastating loss of Constable Evan Lilley, a respected member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and a proud citizen of the Dakota Tipi First Nation, who died by suicide this past weekend.
Evan Lilley Died by suicide
Lilley, remembered as a gentle giant with a kind heart, leaves behind his wife, Gabrielle, and their twin daughters, Elowen and Cedar, who were the light of his life. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend whose compassion and quiet strength touched everyone who knew him.
A Legacy of Service
Constable Lilley dedicated his life to protecting and serving others through his work with the RCMP. He also served as the Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s first male Youth Chief, elected in March 2019, where he inspired young people across Manitoba with his leadership and advocacy.
“Everyone who knew Youth Chief Lilley is better for knowing him,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. “His passing is a heartbreaking loss to his family, loved ones, colleagues, Nation, and all who mourn the loss of this bright light.”
Community and Leadership Response
The City of Portage la Prairie extended its deepest condolences to Lilley’s family, friends, colleagues, and the Dakota Tipi First Nation, noting that his passing is a profound loss to the entire community. In his honour, flags at City Hall will be lowered to half-mast.
Mayor Sharilyn Knox spoke to the broader meaning of Lilley’s death:
“Moments like this remind us that mental health is not something separate from public service, leadership, or community — it is a part of all of us. Behind every badge, every title, every role in our community, there is a person who may be carrying more than we know. Let this be a call to hold one another closer, to ask the hard questions, and to listen without judgment.”
RCMP Suicide: Officer Constable Evan Lilley Died
RCMP Suicide: Officer Constable Evan Lilley Died
A Call for Compassion
The tragedy has reignited conversations about mental health within the RCMP and beyond. Advocacy groups and community leaders are urging a culture where service members and civilians alike feel safe to seek help without fear of stigma or judgment.
💙 Support Resources:
988 Suicide Crisis Helpline (24/7 in Canada): Call or text if you are in crisis.
VAC Assistance Service (for RCMP members, veterans, and families): 1-800-268-7708.
Kids Help Phone (for youth): 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
Hope for Wellness Help Line (for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals): 1-855-242-3310.
Remembering Evan Lilley
Constable Evan Lilley will be remembered not only for his service and leadership, but for the love he carried for his family and community. His loss has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of his wife, daughters, and all who knew him.
“He was everything a truly good human being could be,” one tribute read. “Our hearts are shattered, but his
