Cleveland Police Officer Shot and Killed in Ohio While Responding to a Call

A Webster native, Jamieson Ritter, tragically lost his life on Thursday in Ohio while serving as a member of the Cleveland Division of Police. The 27-year-old officer was responding to a call for a suspect wanted for felonious assault on Cleveland's east side when he was shot and fatally wounded.

Jamieson Ritter had a strong dedication to serving his community and country. He graduated from McQuaid Jesuit in 2015 and Syracuse University in 2019 before joining the Army National Guard. In November 2020, Ritter became a police officer in Cleveland. After a deployment to Syria in 2022, he returned to his duties in Cleveland in 2023.

The Cleveland Division of Police described Ritter as someone who grew up with a deep desire to serve his community and country. His family affirmed his innate understanding of selfless service and devotion to his community from an early age.

Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd expressed her sorrow in a statement, calling it a sad day for the city. She highlighted the irony of the incident occurring on a day dedicated to freedom, emphasizing the evil that can sometimes threaten communities. Chief Todd paid tribute to Officer Ritter's immense sacrifice and pledged to honor his memory and compassion, promising to carry his legacy within their hearts.

McQuaid Jesuit, where Ritter attended school, also released a statement, commending his unwavering dedication and courage in serving his community. They emphasized that Ritter embodied the values of service, justice, and leadership instilled in him during his time as a student there. The school extended their sincerest condolences to Ritter's family and asked the community to keep him, his loved ones, and the Cleveland Police Department in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.

The loss of Officer Jamieson Ritter has left a profound impact on the Cleveland community. His commitment to protecting and serving others will be remembered, and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. As investigations into his tragic death continue, the community unites to support Ritter's family and fellow officers mourning the loss of a dedicated individual who made the ultimate sacrifice.