On May 5, 2006 Senior Constable John Atkinson lost his life while upholding his oath to protect and serve the city he loved. He had a proud, courageous record of service and unwavering dedication to his profession, to his family, and to the people of Windsor. Eleven years later the community gathered to honour Senior Constable Atkinson and his memory at the dedication ceremony for the Senior Constable John Atkinson Memorial Tunnel.

The bridge over the Herb Gray Parkway at St. Clair College is now named the Senior Constable John Atkinson Memorial Tunnel.