CLEVELAND — Two days before the funeral of Det. James Skernivitz is held at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, the Cleveland Division of Police paid tribute to their fallen comrade.
Det. Skernivitz's life and career were honored during an End of Watch call that was sent out over Cleveland police radio on Wednesday. Here is some of what was said during the call:
"Detective Skernivitz, may you rest in peace knowing that your strength and courage lives on in your family and that your honor will continue on in all of us. Detective Skernivitz, thank you for your service. Godspeed, sir."
You can listen to the entire call in the player below.
The funeral service at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is private and open only to family, friends, colleagues and invited guests. Mask mandates, along with additional, appropriate health and safety protocols will be enforced within the venue and around the immediate Gateway area.
3News confirmed Wednesday that the funeral was moved to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse from the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist to maintain proper social distancing. The city called the Cavaliers and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse management seeking a larger venue to hold the funeral and were promptly given the green light.
JACK Cleveland Casino will be offering free parking in its Ontario parking garage to accommodate the guests of the service.
Calling hours for Skernivitz will take place Thursday afternoon at A. Ripepi and Sons Funeral Home in Middleburg Heights from 2-8 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required.
"In lieu of flowers, contributions to the family in support of his children's education would be greatly appreciated," his obituary states.
Skernivitz, 53, died in a shooting last week while in the line of duty in the area of West 65th Street and Storer Avenue. Three teen suspects -- ages 18, 17 and 15 -- have been charged in the case. 50-year-old, Scott Dingess, also died in the incident. He was reportedly there as an informant.
Detective Skernivitz is survived by his wife Kristen; children Matthew, Bayleigh, and Peyton; mother Sandra; brother Greg; and countless other relatives.