One year after the fatal shooting of Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter, his family continues to grieve deeply while channeling their loss into action and remembrance.
On July 4, 2023, Officer Ritter was shot and killed in the line of duty while attempting to arrest a suspect wanted in a recent shooting. Just 27 years old, he had recently been named Officer of the Month and was considering relocating to New York to be closer to his family in the Rochester area.
Now, as the anniversary of his death approaches, his parents, Jon and Karen Ritter, are speaking publicly about their son’s legacy—and their ongoing pain.
“Every Day Feels Like Yesterday”
“Time will not heal this wound,” said Jon Ritter. “Every day feels like the day we lost him.”
His mother, Karen, added, “Nothing helps. Nothing helps a loss when your child is murdered.”
Jamieson’s belongings, including his shoes, remain at the family home as constant reminders of the life that was cut short.
The Ritters believe their son’s death was preventable and say they are still waiting for meaningful accountability. The suspect, whose name has not been released in this statement, has been ruled incompetent to stand trial and remains in mental health treatment. Prosecutors, however, continue to pursue a criminal case.
A Life Remembered, A Legacy Continued
In the wake of Officer Ritter’s death, both the Cleveland and Rochester communities have honored his memory. From tributes to charity hockey games, support has poured in from colleagues, friends, and strangers alike.
“He was capable of spreading joy and happiness,” Karen said. “And people remember that.”
In an effort to carry that spirit forward, the Ritter family has launched the Jamieson Ritter Foundation, which aims to support causes he cared about and promote public safety. “The foundation is going to take over where he left off,” Jon said. “He’ll live through the foundation.”
Seeking Change Beyond Grief
The family is also advocating for reforms that could help prevent similar tragedies in the future. An internal review of the events surrounding Ritter’s death has yet to produce any public updates on changes to Cleveland police procedures, something the Ritters hope to see addressed.
“Public safety is a very big part of this,” Jon said. “If the public’s not safe, then nobody’s safe.”
Remembering and Reflecting
A vigil is being held in Jamieson Ritter’s honor as loved ones mark the anniversary of his passing. For his family, the grief remains raw.
“Miserable is the word I tend to use now,” Karen said. “How else am I supposed to be?”
Officer Ritter’s name lives on in the memories of those who served with him, the city he protected, and now, through the work of a foundation created to ensure that his values and courage continue to make an impact.
For more information on the Jamieson Ritter Foundation or to support its mission, details will be made available through official family and community channels.