‘A hero’: Officer Jamieson Ritter’s family releases statement

WEBSTER, New York (WJW) – Just days after being honored for his service in Cleveland, fallen officer Jamieson Ritter is being remembered in his hometown Friday evening.

Visitation for officer Ritter is being held in Webster, New York.

On Monday, a memorial service was held in Cleveland for the fallen officer, who was killed in the line of duty in the early hours of the Fourth of July.

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Following the service, Ritter’s body was returned to his home in upstate New York, where people he grew up with can say their last goodbyes.

Calling hours will continue until 8 p.m. Friday night.

Ritter’s family released the following joint statement:

“We are deeply saddened at the loss of our beloved family member who was tragically killed in the line of duty. As a Cleveland police officer and a leader in the Ohio National Guard, he selflessly served his nation, his state and his community with unwavering commitment and bravery. His courage and dedication to protecting others were the driving force in his life that has been tragically cut short. 

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support from the Cleveland and Rochester communities during this difficult time. It is a testament to the impact that Jamieson had on those around him and the legacy he leaves behind.

“We kindly ask for privacy as our family collectively mourns his loss during this period of profound grief. We will remember him, and all those who have given their lives in defense of the nation and protection of our communities. While the community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, the Cleveland Police Department mourns the loss of a friend and colleague, the Ohio National Guard mourns the loss of a brother in arms, New York State mourns the loss of a native son – our family mourns the unfathomable loss of a son, a brother, a nephew, uncle and a cousin. We will forever remember him as a hero who gave his life in the line of duty.“

Ritter graduated high school in 2015. Four years later, he graduated from Syracuse University and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.

He was deployed to Syria in 2022 as a member of the Ohio Army National Guard. After that, he continued his service with the Cleveland Division of Police.

Ritter was shot and killed while trying to arrest 24-year-old Delawnte Hardy, who is also accused of killing his grandmother. Hardy, who was indicted on several charges Wednesday, could face the death penalty.

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Although officer Ritter was just 27 years old, fellow officers praised him for his leadership and commitment to community policing.

Following Friday’s wake, a public memorial service will be held Saturday morning in Rochester. Officer Ritter will be laid to rest in a private interment.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Police Foundation is accepting donations to its Heroes Fund, which will provide support for officer Ritter’s family.

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