Justin Robert Winebrenner, a 32-year-old Caucasian male, was an Akron Police Department officer who tragically lost his life on November 16, 2014. He was off-duty at the time, enjoying a night out with friends at a pub in the 1800 block of East Market Street in Akron, Ohio. The incident began when another patron, later identified as Kenan Ivery, became disorderly and was ejected from the establishment.
Ivery returned shortly after, armed with a handgun, and began threatening staff and customers.
Officer Winebrenner, upon learning of the situation from a staff member who knew he was a police officer, along with another off-duty officer, confronted Ivery. During the confrontation, Ivery opened fire, striking Officer Winebrenner once in the chest, which resulted in a fatal wound. Another officer suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, and three civilians were also injured in the shooting.
Ivery fled the scene on foot but was apprehended by a canine unit approximately one mile away. He was later convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on October 28, 2015. The case drew significant attention, with thousands of Akron residents and visitors attending Winebrenner's funeral procession and memorial services to honor his memory and sacrifice.
Officer Winebrenner was remembered not only for his dedication to law enforcement but also for his role as a devoted father to his four-year-old daughter, Charlee, and his fiancée, Tiffany Miller. His death was a profound loss to his family, friends, and the community, who continue to honor his memory through various memorials and scholarships in his name.
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