CLEVELAND, Ohio — A Cleveland police detective and one other person were shot and killed in the Stockyard neighborhood Thursday night, according to the Cleveland Police Department.
The shooting occurred around 10 p.m. near Storer Avenue. The detective was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center where he died. Officials identified him as Detective James Skernivitz. The other person who died is being identified as an informant and passenger who was in Skernivitz's car at the time.
At a Friday press conference, Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams confirmed three men are in custody—two adults and one juvenile. The identies haven't been released. Williams also said he won't release details about what Skernivitz was doing on his shift or who the informant was until the investigation is complete.
During the press conference, Williams also announced the tragic passing of officer Nick Sabo, who died by suicide hours after the shooting.
"We're trying to get to the bottom of why," said Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams tearfully. "For the residents ... please keep sending us your prayers. We appreciate it.".
Skernivitz, 53, has been on the force for 25 years.
Attorney General Dave Yost released a statement Friday morning:
"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.”
Gov. Mike DeWine has also ordered U.S. and State of Ohio flags to be flown at half-staff at all public buildings in Cuyahoga County, the Ohio Statehouse, Vern Riffe Center, and Rhodes Tower in Columbus. Flags will stay at half-staff until sunset on the day of Skernivitz's funeral.
The invesitgation is ongoing, and Williams encouraged residents to send in any tips they may have to the Cleveland Homicide Unit at 216-623-5464 or Crime Stoppers at 216-25-CRIME.
FBI Cleveland also tweeted, offering a reward.