The Cleveland Police Museum is honored to tell the stories of our Fallen Officers on the anniversaries of their End of Watch.
On August 19th, 1996, Jonathan Schroeder, started his career with the Cleveland Division of Police as a recruit in the 114th Academy class. Upon graduation, “A.J.”, as he was known to his friends and colleagues, was assigned to the First District on the west-side of Cleveland.
On Wednesday August 30th, 2006 a group of detectives and officers from the First District Vice Unit, the Sex Crimes Unit and the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force attempted to apprehend Wilson Santiago, wanted in connection with the brutal rape and kidnapping of a female victim.
After knocking and announcing their presence, the suspect briefly opened the door, and then immediately closed it. As Patrol Officer Schroeder used the battering ram to gain entry into the house, the suspect fired two rounds through the door, one striking Schroeder. Although he was wearing his ballistic vest, the bullet traveled underneath his armpit, piercing his heart. He was transported to Metro Health Medical Center, where he died shortly after midnight.
Detective Schroeder left behind his wife Amy and 10-month-old son Eric. Following services at St. John’s Cathedral in Cleveland, he was laid to rest in Monroeville, Pennsylvania.
