Collingwood crossing guard dies on first day back at work

Downtown Collingwood is shown in this undated file image.

A beloved Collingwood crossing guard died on his first day back to work.

On Tuesday afternoon, the High Street and Chamberlain crossing guard, Ralph Allan Shand, suffered a medical emergency while on duty.

Members of the public were quick to assist, and Shand was brought to Collingwood General & Marine Hospital.

• Download the CTV News app to get local alerts on your device 
• Get the latest local updates sent to your email inbox

"The health and safety of our staff are of utmost importance to the town, and we are grateful for the swift action of bystanders and the emergency response team involved," said Amanda Pegg, executive director

In a release issued on Wednesday, Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin spoke of Shand's passing.

"It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of a beloved town crossing guard, Ralph Allan Shand, following a medical emergency while on duty yesterday afternoon," Hamlin said

"Ralph was a valued member of our community, known in his role for his tremendous dedication to supporting children and community members in safely crossing our streets.  Ralph will be deeply missed by his colleagues who had the pleasure of working alongside him," Hamlin said.