Jonathan James "A.J." Schroeder, a 37-year-old Caucasian male, was a detective with the Cleveland Division of Police's First District Vice Unit. On August 30, 2006, Detective Schroeder was killed in the line of duty while serving an arrest warrant at a home near West 98th Street and Madison Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio. The suspect, Wilson Santiago, was wanted for an aggravated burglary and rape that occurred on August 25th. As Detective Schroeder and other officers approached the front door, Santiago opened fire, striking Schroeder above his bulletproof vest. Despite immediate medical attention, Schroeder was pronounced dead at MetroHealth Medical Center.
The suspect, Santiago, was captured shortly after the incident and charged with aggravated murder and attempted murder of the other officers. He was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Detective Schroeder, a 10-year veteran of the Cleveland Police Department, was survived by his wife, Amy, and their 10-month-old son, Eric. His funeral was attended by over 3,000 officers from across the United States and Canada, honoring his dedication and service.
Detective Schroeder's death was a tragic loss for the Cleveland community and the law enforcement family. His name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., ensuring that his sacrifice is never forgotten.
