– Cleveland police officer killed in the line of duty
– Cleveland police officer identified as Jamieson Ritter.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – The city of Cleveland is mourning the loss of one of its own after Cleveland Division of Police Officer Jamieson Ritter, #1176, was shot and killed in the line of duty on July 4. The tragic incident took place in the Hough neighborhood in the early hours of the morning.
Chief Dorothy Todd of the Cleveland Division of Police identified Officer Ritter as the victim of the fatal shooting. According to Chief Todd, officers were in the area to serve a warrant for a man wanted for felonious assault when they encountered the suspect, 24-year-old Delawnte Hardy. Hardy, who was leaving a home on a bicycle, opened fire on the officers, fatally striking Officer Ritter.
Hardy was taken into custody at the scene and charged with aggravated murder. Chief Todd stated that Officer Ritter had served with distinction and pride in the Fourth District of the Cleveland Division of Police for four years. He had also served in Syria in 2020 with his National Guard unit before returning to serve as a police officer in Cleveland.
Officer Ritter was recently honored as the Cleveland Police Foundation’s Police Officer of the Month in May for his heroic efforts in several life-saving situations. His dedication to saving lives and serving his community was evident in the actions described by Cleveland Division of Police Third District Sgt. Eric Newton.
Prior to joining the Cleveland Division of Police, Officer Ritter was a graduate of Syracuse University and a member of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. He continued his service as a Quartermaster Officer in the New York Army National Guard, where he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and served with the 134th Field Artillery Regiment.
Officer Ritter, a native of Webster, N.Y., was described by his family as having a strong desire to serve his country and community from a young age. His dedication to selfless service and his leadership skills were evident in his actions both as a police officer and a member of the National Guard.
The loss of Officer Jamieson Ritter has deeply impacted the city of Cleveland, but Chief Todd emphasized that his sacrifice will not be forgotten. The community has come together to honor his memory and show support for his family and fellow officers during this difficult time. Officer Ritter’s legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who continue to serve in his memory..
– Cleveland police officer killed in line of duty
– Cleveland police officer identified as Jamieson Ritter.