Ohio officials, police departments react to death of Cleveland Police Department Det. James Skernivitz

Law enforcement community offers heartfelt condolences after Cleveland officer killed

By Avery Williams | September 4, 2020 at 7:36 AM EDT - Updated September 4 at 7:05 PM

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Ohioans involved in public safety are sending condolences to Cleveland from across the state due to the death of Cleveland Police Officer James Skernivitz.

Skernivitz died in a Thursday night shooting. A second victim also died but has not yet been identified.

Dave Yost, Ohio Attorney General, shared this statement in an email to 19 News:

“Detective Skernivitz gave his life trying to keep danger off the streets of Cleveland. This tragedy shows once again the valor and honor of the police — and that there are yet dangerous, evil men in the world who must be brought to justice. My heart breaks for his family and I pray that in their grief, they find solace in his legacy of service and sacrifice.”

Dave Yost

Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish said this:

“My heart goes out to the family, friends and fellow police officers who knew Detective James Skernivitz. Detective Skernivitz served 28 years on the Cleveland Police Force—as an undercover officer he was on the front lines of important work against gangs. Last night he was shot down. Police officers throughout the country put their lives on the line every day to protect us from crime and danger. That statement should not be a flashpoint or controversial—unfortunately, these days it is. I am grateful for Detective Skernivitz’s service and I pray for his family. May he rest in peace.”

Armond Budish

Our hearts are heavy. Cleveland Police we are incredibly sorry for your loss. 53-year-old detective James Skernivitz, a 25-year veteran of the Cleveland Police. 💙
Posted by Columbus Division of Police on Friday, September 4, 2020

The Cleveland Indians have lowered their flags at the ballpark and will be observing a moment of silence before tonight’s game.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Det. Skernivitz as he spent many years at Progressive Field protecting fans,” the Indians tweeted.

GALLERY: These are a fraction of the social media posts made by Ohioans in honor of Skernivitz.