Family and friends gave an emotional goodbye to fallen Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter on Saturday.

Officers from across the country honored Ritter, a native of Webster, N.Y., for his sacrifice with a funeral service at Browncroft Community Church in the Rochester suburb of Penfield.

Ritter, 27, was shot and killed on Thursday, July 4, while serving an arrest warrant in Cleveland. 

His body was returned to his hometown of Webster earlier this week.

While his uniform is being laid to rest, a symbolic ceremony will ensure Officer Ritter is never forgotten.

“Jamieson was taken far too soon from this world,” Jamieson's sister Angelica Ritter said. “He truly was meant for greatness. Jamieson, I love you so much. Watch over us all now. I will make sure your legacy lives.”

“I hope that this is another example that the community sees that law enforcement needs their support," Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd said. "We need to make sure that, you know, officers are thanked [and] that the work that they do is not taken for granted. And they are out there to make sure that the community is protected.”

Ritter was a graduate of McQuaid Jesuit High School and a Syracuse University alum. Following his college career, he joined the Cleveland Division of Police in 2020, serving the city for four years. He was the son of retired Greece Police Department Officer Jon Ritter.

“I've been thinking about your senior quote lately,” Ritter’s friend Jack Schwab said. “'You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.' It does not surprise me that you chose a quote from a Batman movie. I think this quote speaks to your commitment to your causes. A piece of me died with you, Jamieson. And I won't ever get it back. And I don't want it back. And I'll keep yours as safe as well. And I'll see you in the next one. I love you, Jamieson.”

"When Jamieson graduated from Syracuse University on Mother's Day, he handed me this card,” Jamieson's mother Karen Ritter said. “I may not always physically be with you. I may not always physically be here. But I'll always be with you. And I will always be your baby. Love, Jamieson.”

Many officers who worked alongside him said the ceremony is a testament to the many lives he has impacted throughout his life. 

“His legacy does not end today,” Jamieson's sister Alysia Snook said. “In 27 short years, he has touched more lives than most do in a lifetime. Be kind, loving and caring to those around us, and to always be willing to lend a helping hand, especially to those most in need. That’s exactly what Jamieson did.” 

Those gathered share the dedication to every community Ritter served will be felt for years to come. His legacy continues to live on through the stories and memories he leaves behind.