A permanent memorial honouring Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement officer Toni Kristinsson has been installed at a Highway 5 rest area near the site where he died in the line of duty more than 11 years ago.
Kristinsson was killed on February 1st, 2015, when his patrol vehicle collided with a commercial transport truck near Valemount while he was driving home from his shift. He was the first CVSE peace officer to be killed while on duty.
The Ministry of Transportation and Transit told The Goat the idea for the memorial emerged from discussions among employees at the local CVSE office where Kristinsson had worked.
A rest area located a few kilometres south of the collision site was identified as a meaningful location where his life and public service could be permanently commemorated.
The Ministry developed and led the project in consultation with Kristinsson’s wife, who participated throughout its planning, design and installation.
The monument was designed by the Ministry with input from Kristinsson’s family and constructed by a Vancouver Island monument manufacturer. Installation of the monument was completed Sept. 1.
Family members, friends and former coworkers gathered at the rest area on Sept. 3 for a private dedication ceremony and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
Kristinsson’s wife and son attended the ceremony. His son delivered remarks, and members of the CVSE ceremonial unit conducted a flag ceremony.
Kristinsson had worked for CVSE for slightly more than three years and spent most of that time serving the Robson Valley from the Tête Jaune Inspection Station.
Gord Handlen, a supervisor with the Valemount CVSE unit, said the memorial and dedication offered a reminder of the uncertainty of life.
“It really makes you reflect on life and think about what’s important,” Handlen said. “Spend time with people you care about and let them know how you feel. You always think there will be tomorrow, but sometimes there is no guarantee that tomorrow will happen.” Handlen told the Goat.
The Ministry said Kristinsson’s legacy continues to be felt throughout the organization and among those who knew and worked with him.
His name also lives on through the Toni Kristinsson Officer of the Year Award, established to annually recognize a CVSE officer who demonstrates compassion, integrity and a commitment to public service.
Handlen became the award’s inaugural recipient in 2024.
The Ministry said the Highway 5 memorial provides family members, colleagues and travellers with a permanent place to remember Kristinsson and the service he provided to the Robson Valley.
More than a decade after his death, Kristinsson continues to be remembered for his integrity, professionalism and dedication to public service.
