It is with deep sadness and profound respect that we remember Sergeant Investigator Anaïs Fortin Cozzens of the Sûreté du Québec, who tragically passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Sergeant Cozzens, a dedicated and brave member of the Major Crimes Investigation Division in Gatineau, lost her life while performing her duty in service to the people of Quebec. This devastating loss serves as a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day in their commitment to protecting and serving their communities. Anaïs’s passing has left a profound impact on her family, her colleagues, and all who knew her.
Sergeant Investigator Anaïs Fortin Cozzens had been with the Sûreté du Québec for many years, building a distinguished career in law enforcement. Her dedication to public safety and her commitment to the pursuit of justice made her a standout figure within the Major Crimes Investigation Division. Throughout her career, she worked tirelessly to investigate some of the most complex and sensitive cases, always approaching her work with a high level of professionalism and integrity.
Her colleagues within the Sûreté du Québec remember her not only for her expertise in criminal investigations but for her leadership and mentorship. Anaïs was known for her ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, a vital quality in the often-chaotic and emotionally charged world of major crime investigations. She was deeply respected by her peers, who valued her judgment and commitment to always doing what was right, no matter the personal cost.
Her loss is felt deeply within the Sûreté du Québec, but her legacy as a dedicated law enforcement officer will live on in the many lives she touched throughout her career.
On the fateful day of March 31, 2026, Sergeant Cozzens was traveling to police headquarters when she was involved in a multi-vehicle traffic collision on Route 138 in Portneuf-sur-Mer. The collision left her severely injured, and despite the best efforts of medical personnel, she later succumbed to her injuries at the hospital.
The incident occurred while she was on duty, heading to perform her responsibilities as a public servant. This tragic event underscores the risks that law enforcement officers face not only in their work but also while performing even the most routine tasks in the course of their duty. Sergeant Cozzens was a victim of a tragic accident while carrying out her professional responsibilities, a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the job.
Her passing has deeply affected the entire Sûreté du Québec community, as well as the broader law enforcement community across Canada. She leaves behind a legacy of commitment, professionalism, and courage.
Following the news of Sergeant Cozzens’s passing, there has been an outpouring of tributes from her colleagues, law enforcement agencies, and members of the community she served. The Calgary Police Service expressed their deep sorrow at the news of her death, extending condolences to her family and colleagues. “Our thoughts are with her family, including her spouse and children, as well as the entire Sûreté du Québec family,” said a statement from the Calgary Police Service.
Tributes also poured in from her peers in the Sûreté du Québec, who remembered her as a dedicated professional, a fearless investigator, and a leader within the department. “Anaïs was someone who always put the community first,” said a colleague. “She had a rare combination of skill, compassion, and a relentless desire to make a difference. Her loss leaves a hole in our hearts that will be difficult to fill.”
Her family and friends, though devastated by this tragic loss, take comfort in knowing that Anaïs’s work and contributions will continue to be celebrated. The community she served in Gatineau will forever remember her for her unwavering commitment to public safety and her ability to always put others before herself.
Sergeant Anaïs Fortin Cozzens is remembered not only for her expertise in criminal investigations but for her bravery and deep sense of duty. Throughout her career, she made it clear that she was willing to put herself in harm’s way to protect others. Her courage extended beyond her work; it was reflected in her relationships with colleagues and the people she helped in her role as a law enforcement officer.
Her commitment to justice was unwavering. Whether investigating a complex crime or offering guidance to a fellow officer, Anaïs always brought her best to every situation. Those who worked with her will remember her not only as a colleague but as someone who instilled confidence in others, someone whose integrity and sense of purpose inspired those around her to always do their best.
The Sûreté du Québec and the community she served are proud of the work she did and the life she lived. Her legacy as a fierce protector of the public and a role model to other law enforcement professionals will continue to inspire and guide future generations of officers.
As the Sûreté du Québec, law enforcement officers, and the entire community grieve this tremendous loss, they are also finding ways to honor the life and service of Sergeant Anaïs Fortin Cozzens. Official tributes will be held, and her memory will live on through the many lives she touched—whether through her work in law enforcement, her mentorship to others, or the way she inspired those around her with her dedication and compassion.
Her family, friends, and colleagues continue to carry forward her legacy of service, courage, and professionalism. While her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her, it is clear that her impact will continue to resonate through the work of those she inspired.
Sergeant Anaïs Fortin Cozzens was more than just a law enforcement officer; she was a beacon of service, courage, and integrity. Her legacy will be remembered not only by her colleagues at the Sûreté du Québec but by the community she served with such dedication.
As we reflect on her life, we remember a woman who gave everything for the safety of others, who led with her heart and her actions, and who left behind a legacy that will inspire for years to come. Her passing is a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day, and of the importance of honoring and remembering those who have given their lives in service to others.
Rest in peace, Sergeant Anaïs Fortin Cozzens. You will never be forgotten.