CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH—District 10 Councilman Michael J. Houser released the following statement:

“I want to thank the many local, state, and federal agencies who worked through the night to bring the suspect into custody and prevent further loss of life. The coordinated response from the East Cleveland Fire Department, Euclid Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Cleveland Division of Police, Cleveland Heights Police Department, Shaker Heights Police Department, Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department, University Circle Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, SWAT, U.S. Marshals, ATF, Secret Service, and BCI was swift, professional, and a testament to law enforcement doing exactly what they are sworn to do, protect and serve.

“To the families of Officers Brandon Hernandez and Joshua Durba, and to the loved ones of the two civilians whose lives were tragically taken, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am thankful both officers are in stable condition and commend their bravery in the face of danger.

“This incident is a sobering reminder of the daily risks our law enforcement officers face and the urgent need to address the root causes of violence in our communities. We cannot accept a reality where domestic disputes turn into deadly confrontations and officers are targeted in the line of duty. As leaders, we must work together to strengthen community safety, invest in mental health and conflict resolution resources, and ensure our officers have the support and equipment they need to return home safely.

“The violence we have seen in East Cleveland and in Lorain just two weeks ago demands a unified response. This is why it is now more important than ever to support our countywide Office of Violence Prevention so we can address the causes of violence before lives are lost. I stand ready to work with my colleagues, law enforcement, and community leaders to protect both those who serve and the residents they are sworn to protect.”