REPORTS: 3 arrested in shooting death of Cleveland police officer

CLEVELAND — (UPDATED @ 6 p.m.): Two juveniles and one adult have been arrested in the fatal shooting of Cleveland Police Detective James Skernivitiz.

Follow our news affiliate 19 News for more updates.

EARLIER REPORT

A Cleveland police officer was killed in the line of duty Thursday night in the Cleveland Stockyard neighborhood, according to our news affiliate 19 News.

Cleveland Police Detective James Skernivitiz was a member of the force for more than 25 years

“Cleveland lost one of its finest tonight,” Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams said Thursday night.

Williams said the shooting happened between 9:30 and 10 p.m. in the area of W. 65th St. and Storer Avenue.

Jeff Follmer, Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association President, provided initial details at the crime scene, saying a second person was also killed; however, at this time, police don’t believe the other victim was a suspect.

“It’s bad, this a bad one. And they’re all bad—this one hurts,” Follmer said.

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Detective Skernivitz was taken to MetroHealth hospital and was pronounced dead late Thursday evening.

“Personally, I want to give my condolences to the family and on behalf of the City of Cleveland,” said Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.

“Detective Skernivitz gave his life trying to keep danger off the streets in Cleveland,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said in a statement. “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.”

Williams said the suspect in the shooting has not been arrested and urges anyone with information to call 9-1-1 or the Cleveland Homicide Unit at 216-623-5464.

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