A Cleveland police officer was shot and killed early Thursday morning on the Fourth of July holiday, the Cleveland Division of Police confirmed.
Officer Jamieson Ritter, a four-year veteran of the department, was serving and protecting the community when he was fatally shot. The division expressed its sorrow in a statement, highlighting Ritter’s dedication and service to the city.
“Officer Ritter served our city with distinction and pride,” the statement read.
Ritter graduated from Syracuse University in 2019 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army National Guard. He served with the Ohio Army National Guard’s 134th Field Artillery Regiment. After joining the Cleveland Division of Police in November 2020, Ritter deployed to Syria in 2022 with his unit and returned to continue his service in Cleveland in 2023.
Originally from Webster, New York, and a 2015 graduate of McQuaid Jesuit High School, Ritter had a lifelong commitment to serving his country and community. His family recalled his early desire to serve, saying, “From an early age, Jamieson possessed an innate understanding of selfless service to the nation and a strong desire to serve his community.”
“Today is a sad day for our city,” said Chief Dorothy Todd. “Ironically, on this day designated for freedom, we are reminded of the evil that tries to impose on our community. However, despite our pain and hurt, we take in the immense sacrifice Officer Ritter gave, and we will honor his memory and compassion. We will continue to carry his legacy in our hearts.”