Condolences pouring in over Cleveland police officer killed in line of duty

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Police departments and officials from across Northeast Ohio expressed condolences Thursday following the death of a Cleveland police officer who was killed in the line of duty.

A 27-year-old police officer was fatally shot in the 1500 block of E. 80th St. around 1 a.m. The officer was identified as Jamieson Ritter.

Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd said a 24-year-old man, Delawnte Hardy, was arrested and charged with aggravated murder.

According to Chief Todd, officers were executing an arrest warrant for Hardy, who was wanted for aggravated assault.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine ordered the U.S. and Ohio state flags to be lowered in some areas in honor of Officer Ritter.

Gov. DeWine orders flags lowered in honor of Cleveland police officer Jamieson Ritter(Source: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine)

Team Story: Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter Killed in the Line of Duty

Statement from Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb:

“I am heartbroken by the devastating loss of one of our Cleveland Division of Police officers today. Our entire city mourns the tragic loss of this dedicated public servant. We will fully support this investigation and ensure that the perpetrator is swiftly brought to justice to the fullest extent of the law. My deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our deceased officer. Please pray for his family and the Cleveland Division of Police as we mourn this senseless loss.”

Statement from Cleveland City Council:

The entire Council is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter. Officer Ritter was fatally shot while on duty near East 80th and Wade Park early this morning.

Council President Blaine A. Griffin noted, “This is a terrible tragedy not only for the officer’s family and friends, but also for the Cleveland Police Department and the city of Cleveland. We extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Councilwoman Stephanie Howse-Jones said, “I am deeply saddened by the devastating loss of Officer Ritter, a dedicated public servant. His courage and dedication in keeping our community safe will be forever remembered. My deepest condolences are with Officer Ritter’s family, friends, colleagues and the Third District family.”

“It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Officer Ritter, who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community. His selfless dedication and courage will be forever remembered,” said Councilman Mike Polensek, chairman of the Council’s Safety Committee. “We stand with the members of the Cleveland Police Department as they mourn this devastating loss.”

Statement from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine:

“Fran and I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter, who not only dedicated his life to protecting the citizens of Cleveland, but also served his state and nation as a member of the Ohio National Guard. On this Independence Day, this tragedy is a painful reminder of the sacrifices our law enforcement and military members make for freedom and public safety.”

Statement from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost:

“This young officer was a selfless hero who served his community and dedicated his life to fighting evil.

The loss of an officer on a day we celebrate our country’s freedom is a cruel reminder of the price paid by those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities safe.

My deepest condolences to Officer Ritter’s loved ones and the Cleveland Police Department.”

Statement from Akron Mayor Shammas Malik:

“Our hearts go out to the city of Cleveland and the loved ones of the Cleveland Police Officer who was tragically shot and killed last night while on duty. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn this difficult loss.”

Statement from Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne:

“I am saddened to learn of the senseless killing of Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter. On behalf of Cuyahoga County, I extend my sincere condolences to Jamieson’s family and loved ones and the entire Cleveland community. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we support our law enforcement officers for the work they do to protect us every day. We pledge to honor the memory of Officer Jamieson Ritter. May he rest in peace.”