KITCHENER -- Officials have confirmed that Const. Cory Trainor, the West Grey Police officer who was found in his cruiser Tuesday morning just north of Mount Forest, died from a self-inflicted injury.

The 28-year-old was the force's Media Relations and Corporate Communications Officer.

Police say Trainor was found dead in a police vehicle that was parked at Grey Road 109 and Southgate Road 6.

Brian Trainor, Cory's father and a councillor for the Montreal suburb of Ville de Saint-Lazare, issued a statement Wednesday.

"Cory was foremost a great son, husband and a loved member of his extended family and many friends. Service to community was an integral part of his life, including his regular participation in fundraising and charity events but nothing could come close to his dedication and love of service as a police officer. Being a police officer was in his blood and was his life."

“From his studies at St. Lawrence College, Nicolet Police College, and the Ontario Police College, Cory dedicated his life to become the best police officer he possibly could be. His police work experience in northern Quebec and northern Ontario preceded his ultimately joining the West Grey Police Force where his love of community policing allowed him to live his dream.”

“The family wishes to thank everyone for their overwhelming support in our time of this great loss. Memorials to celebrate Cory’s life are being planned in both Ontario and Quebec and details will be announced in the near future.”

Dave Bishop, an inspector with Owen Sound Police, says Trainor's death happened “under some tragic circumstances.”

The West Grey Police released a statement Tuesday afternoon.

“A member of the West Grey Police with five years of service passed away this morning,” it reads. “We extend our deepest condolences to the officer’s loved ones and colleagues. This traffic loss of our colleague and friend is being felt throughout our close-knit community and will inevitably continue to be felt for a long time to come. The loss of one member affects us all.”

West Grey Police are encouraging the public and members of their police family to reach out for support.

Flags in West Grey will also be lowered to half-mast in honour of Trainor's service.