Westerville, Ohio - The two Westerville police officers killed in the line of duty Saturday afternoon have been identified as Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering.
Chief Joseph Morbitzer was emotional as he spoke of the two officers, one of whom had been with the department for 17 years and the other was a 30-year vet.
He called the men "true American heroes who gave their life today".
The officers were responding to a 9-1-1 call related to a domestic dispute and met with gunfire.
One was killed on the scene and the other died at an area hospital from his injuries.
The suspect was taken into custody after being wounded.
Westerville is 15 miles northwest of downtown Columbus.
Police throughout Ohio are mourning the tragic loss of two fellow officers in the line of duty.
Jason Pappas, President of the Capital City FOP Lodge, says they are heartbroken and praying for the victims and their families:
“Along with my members, I’m heartbroken by this news. Our brothers and sisters in Central Ohio law enforcement mourn the loss of these two brave officers. We’re also praying for their families. We ask anyone who wants to help support the families to donate at GoFundMe.com/FOPLodge9HelpFund.”
Jay McDonald, President of the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, joined in Pappas' call for people to donate to help the families of the murdered officers:
“This is just another grim reminder that police work has the potential for deadly danger every day. That’s why the Fraternal Order of Police works to build continuous public support for the men and women who risk everything so others can be safe. Please remember these officers – and all officers – in your prayers."
Ohio Governor John Kasich, who lives in a nearby township, tweeted that he is saddened to learn of the deaths of "two of my hometown officers".
He asked Ohio residents to join him in "lifting up these officers' families in prayer."
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