Activity duty Massachusetts police officer previously drafted by the NHL dies unexpectedly at 38

The Boston Police Department has announced the sudden passing of active-duty Boston Police Officer Pierce Fitzgerald Norton.

Officer Norton was appointed to the Boston Police Department on December 9, 2013, and, after graduating from the Boston Police Academy, he served as a Probationary Officer assigned to Districts B-3, A-1 and D-4. He was then assigned as a Permanent Boston Police Officer to District A-1. In 2018 Officer Norton was assigned to the Citywide Bicycle Unit where he was last assigned. Officer Norton received numerous commendations for his dedicated service during his career, including praise for his response to quality-of-life concerns. Officer Norton was highly regarded by those he worked with, his supervisors and all that knew him, both within the Department and by those he served.

Norton, who was drafted in the ninth round by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2004, appeared in 135 games at Providence College and amassed 59 points. As a junior in 2007-08, Norton hit career-highs in goals (10), assists (14) and points (24).

“The Providence College community is saddened by the news of the passing of Pierce,” Providence College Athletic Director Steve Napolillo said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. They will always be a part of the Friar community.”

Norton passed away on January 11 at the age of 38.