Gone, But Never Forgotten: Reflecting on the Life of CBSA Officer Michelle Beauchamp

On Tuesday, October 25, 2011, at 8:25 am, the Canada Border Services Agency experienced the tragic loss of Officer Michelle Raby-Beauchamp due to a collision on the Queen Elizabeth Way in Fort Erie, Ontario. Officer Beauchamp was returning home after completing her night shift at the Canada Peace Bridge. Her untimely passing deeply affected all who knew her, both personally and professionally. She was dedicated to her career and committed to safeguarding her country from potential dangers.

I would like to take a moment to reflect on the life of Officer Beauchamp. In the spring of 2007, I was appointed as a Transport Security Guard with CBSA Immigration, responsible for transporting detainees from the Port of Entry to the Immigration Holding Centre in Etobicoke, Ontario. During my tenure as a transport guard, I had the opportunity to meet Officer Beauchamp at the Refugee Processing Unit located at the Peace Bridge. While working the evening shift, I often visited the RPU to collect cases and prepare them for transport. During these visits, Officer Beauchamp consistently went above and beyond to assist those in need. She was a compassionate individual who always maintained a positive demeanor. If any member of the RPU team was feeling down, she would make an effort to bring joy and laughter. Although my role was primarily focused on security, she took the time to educate me on various procedures related to documentation and searches, and she encouraged me to consider a career as a CBSA officer. I believe that Officer Beauchamp’s colleagues would wholeheartedly agree on the profound impact of her life and the enduring legacy she has left behind.

On the day of her passing, I was engaged in an Immigration case at Toronto Pearson International Airport when I received the news about Officer Beauchamp. Almost immediately, I felt a lump in my throat and was overcome with shock. This experience was challenging for me, and I can only imagine how much more difficult it was for those who worked closely with her.

Officer Beauchamp, while serving as a full-time Border Officer and raising three children, was concurrently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Criminality at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario to enhance her career prospects within the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Officer Beauchamp’s legacy endures in our memories, remaining both vivid and treasured, even after her passing 13 years ago. Those fortunate enough to have collaborated with her, along with her family, will eternally keep her spirit alive within us. On a personal note, I experience a deep sense of sorrow in her absence. Although Officer Beauchamp has joined the esteemed ranks of fallen officers, her essence will forever resonate in our hearts.