12/10/2026
Today, we remember three Victoria Police members who lost their lives in the line of duty on 12 October, in 1902 and 1988.
Although off duty, on 12 October 1902, Constable Richard Johnston 4356 responded to a neighbour’s report that a man had attempted to abduct her eight-year-old daughter. He pursued the suspect and confronted him in Milton Street, Elwood, where he was fatally shot. His actions reflected his commitment to protecting his community, even when off duty.
On 12 October 1988, Constable Damian Eyre 26483 and Constable Stephen John Tynan 25080 attended a report of a suspicious abandoned vehicle at Walsh Street, South Yarra. The officers were deliberately lured to the location and ambushed, both losing their lives. Their deaths led to an intensive investigation and became one of the defining tragedies in the history of Victoria Police.
Our thoughts are with the Tynan and Eyre families who had their lives changed forever on that tragic day, and who continue to feel the loss. After the shocking events of that day, the community rallied behind Victoria Police and the families, from which emerged the Blue Ribbon Foundation, which was initially named the Tynan and Eyre Foundation. The first hospital project that the Foundation funded was the Tynan and Eyre Diagnostic Centre Alfred Hospital in 1993.
Today, we honour Constable Johnston, Constable Eyre, and Constable Tynan for their service and sacrifice. Their lives will not be forgotten.
Remember. Honour. Support.
