Condolences pour in for Cleveland police officer murdered in the line of duty

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Police departments and officials from across Northeast Ohio expressed their condolences Thursday for a Cleveland police officer killed in the line of duty.

The 27-year-old 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, is in custody and charged with aggravated murder.

According to Chief Todd, the officers were serving a warrant on Hardy, who was wanted for a felonious assault.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered that United States and State of Ohio flags are lowered in some areas in honor of Officer Ritter.

Governor DeWine Orders Flags Lowered in Honor of Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter(Source: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine)

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Statement from Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb:

“I am heartbroken about 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 the investigation and ensure that the perpetrator is swiftly brought to justice to the fullest extent of the law. My deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of our fallen 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 expresses profound sorrow upon learning of the passing 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 remarked, “This is an immense tragedy not only for the officer’s family and friends but also for the Division of Police and the city of Cleveland. We extend our sincerest sympathies to his family.”

Councilwoman Stephanie Howse-Jones conveyed, “I am deeply grieved by the devastating loss of Officer Ritter, a devoted public servant. His valor and dedication to ensuring the safety of our community will be forever remembered. My deepest condolences are with Officer Ritter’s family, friends, colleagues, and the Third District family.”

“It is with great sorrow that we mourn the loss of Officer Ritter who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community. His selfless dedication and bravery will forever be remembered,” shared Councilman Mike Polensek, chair of Council’s Safety Committee. “We stand in solidarity with the Cleveland Police members as we grieve this devastating loss.”

Statement from Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine:

“Fran and I offer 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 in support of freedom and public safety.”

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost Statement:

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

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

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

Statement from Akron Mayor Shammas Malik:

“Our hearts are with the City of Cleveland and the loved ones of the Cleveland police officer who was tragically shot and killed last night in the line of 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 offer my sincere condolences to Jamieson’s family and loved ones, and to the entire Cleveland community. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we support members of law enforcement for what they do to protect us every day. We vow to honor Officer Jamieson Ritter’s memory. May he rest in peace.”