“Man Sentenced to Life for Murder of Cleveland Firefighter Johnny Tetrick”

A man named Leander Bissell has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 16 years for the murder of a Cleveland firefighter. The firefighter, Johnny Tetrick, was hit by Bissell’s car while responding to a crash and later died. Bissell was indicted on multiple charges, including murder and aggravated vehicular homicide. Tetrick served with the Cleveland Division of Fire for over 27 years. William Tilton, The News-Herald, Willoughby, Ohio reported

On August 15th, Leander Bissell, a 41-year-old man, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 16 years for the murder of a Cleveland firefighter, Johnny Tetrick. The tragic incident occurred in November when Tetrick was struck by Bissell’s car while responding to a crash on Interstate 90. Following the collision, Bissell fled the scene, leaving Tetrick fatally injured. Tetrick was rushed to University Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The court documents reveal that Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Timothy McCormick sentenced Bissell to serve his sentence at the Lorain Correctional Institute. Bissell faced multiple charges, including murder, felonious assault, and aggravated vehicular homicide.

The vehicle responsible for the incident was later located by Cleveland Police officers at East 152nd Street and Ridpath Avenue at around 12:20 a.m. on November 20th. Bissell, identified as the suspect, was apprehended by the Bratenahl Police Department for aggravated vehicular homicide and failure to stop after an accident on public roads or highways.

Johnny Tetrick had faithfully served with the Cleveland Division of Fire for more than 27 years, primarily stationed at Engine 22 on the east side of the city. Sadly, his untimely death in the line of duty has left behind a devastated family, including his wife and three adult daughters.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices that firefighters like Tetrick face daily while protecting their communities. The sentencing of Leander Bissell to life in prison, though offering the possibility of parole after 16 years, reflects the severity of the crime committed and the value placed on the life lost.

It is our hope that Tetrick’s colleagues, friends, and loved ones find solace and support during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a dedicated firefighter who made a significant impact during his lengthy service..