CLEVELAND — 40-year-old Leander Bissell, the man accused in Saturday's alleged hit-and-run that claimed the life of Cleveland firefighter Johnny Tetrick, made his first court appearance in the case Monday morning.
That's where a judge set bond at $500,000. A preliminary hearing has also been scheduled for Nov. 29.
Bratenahl police tell 3News that Bissell, of Cleveland, was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide in connection with the case.
The incident happened Saturday night as firefighter Tetrick was working to clear debris off the roadway after a crash along I-90 East near MLK when authorities say he was struck by a vehicle.
The suspect vehicle then fled the scene, authorities said.
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Police say they later found a vehicle matching the description involved in the incident, and identified its owner as Bissell. A police report indicates an officer determined that Bissell "was intoxicated due to a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person, as well as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech."
Bissell was arrested shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday. Tetrick was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb released the following statement on Sunday:
"I am saddened to learn of the death of Cleveland firefighter Johnny Tetrick and extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and fellow firefighters. Firefighter Tetrick was devoted to his work as a first responder and was a much-loved member of his family and his community. Our prayers go out to his entire family as the city mourns the loss of a colleague and a dedicated public servant."
Tetrick, who served the community for 27 years, is survived by his wife and three children.