With heavy hearts, the community of Cleveland mourns the tragic loss of Officer Jamieson Ritter, badge number 1176, who was murdered in the line of duty during the early morning hours of Thursday, July 4, 2024. His unwavering commitment to justice and devotion to his community will be remembered forever, and his loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his colleagues, friends, and family.
Jamieson Ritter, a dedicated officer assigned to the Third District, served the Cleveland Division of Police for the past four years. Born and raised in Webster, New York, Jamieson’s journey of service began early in life. He graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School in 2015, where he was known for his strong sense of duty and leadership. His passion for serving others led him to Syracuse University, where he earned his degree in 2019.
Following his graduation, Jamieson joined the Army National Guard as a 2nd Lieutenant. His service in the Ohio Army National Guard saw him attached to the 134th Field Artillery Regiment. In 2022, he and his squad were deployed to Syria, where he demonstrated exceptional bravery and leadership. His return to Cleveland in 2023 marked his continuation of service, this time to his local community as a police officer.
Jamieson’s dedication to his community was deeply rooted in his family history. His father, Jon Ritter, served as a police officer in Greece, New York, and was credited with saving lives during a tragic incident on Christmas Eve 2012. A suspect named William Spengler set fire to a building and shot at the responding firefighters. Jon Ritter heroically used his automobile to shield others from the gunfire while on his way to work. He retired from the Greece Police Department in 2013, but his legacy of bravery and service lived on through Jamieson.
Joining the Cleveland Division of Police in November 2020, Jamieson quickly became known for his strong work ethic, unwavering integrity, and commitment to justice. He was a beloved member of his squad, always ready to lend a helping hand and support his colleagues. His passion for law enforcement was evident in everything he did, and his desire to make a difference in his community was unwavering.
Jamieson’s service was not just a career; it was a calling. His family recalled his strong desire to serve his community and his innate understanding of selfless service to the nation from an early age. Whether in the military or as a police officer, Jamieson’s actions were guided by a deep sense of duty and a commitment to protecting others.
Tragically, Jamieson’s life was cut short in an act of violence while he was on duty, a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting their communities. The circumstances surrounding his death have left the community in shock and mourning. His loss is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jamieson’s legacy is one of bravery, dedication, and selflessness. His impact on the Cleveland Division of Police and the community he served will be remembered for years to come. His colleagues have shared countless stories of his kindness, his willingness to go above and beyond, and his unwavering commitment to justice. He was not just a police officer; he was a hero to many.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, plans for a memorial service to honor Jamieson’s life and legacy are underway. The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming, with many sharing memories and tributes to a man who gave so much of himself to others. His family, friends, and colleagues are left to navigate a future without him, but his spirit and legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Jamieson’s passing is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those in law enforcement and the military. His dedication to serving others, both at home and abroad, stands as a testament to his character and his commitment to making the world a better place. He embodied the values of courage, honor, and service, and his memory will continue to be a source of inspiration.
The Ritter family, the Cleveland Division of Police, and the entire community will forever remember Jamieson Ritter as a hero. His life, though tragically cut short, was marked by a dedication to service that few can match. As they mourn his passing, they also celebrate the remarkable impact he had on the lives of so many.
The Ritter family will release Jamieson’s obituary and funeral arrangements at a later date. In the meantime, the community is coming together to support them during this difficult time, honoring the memory of a man who gave everything in service to others. Officer Jamieson Ritter’s legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he served and protected, a shining example of courage and dedication.
