The Lorain Police Department lost one of its own last week during a tragic ambush incident. Officer Phillip Wagner succumbed to his injuries following a shooting last Wednesday. While WKYC reports that funeral arrangements had not yet been confirmed, a 35-year-old Wagner left behind a wife and three children after valiantly serving both his country and community.
Initially, it was reported by Cleveland19 that funeral details would be announced this morning, however, updates provided to FOX8 and later clarified indicate that Wagner's funeral service is set for Wednesday, July 30, at the Rocket Arena in Cleveland, exclusively for family and fellow officers. Wagner, who also served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including a tour in Afghanistan, will be honored with full military respect during the ceremony. The family will then proceed with a private burial, his loving memory, and a four-year service to the Lorain Police Department, revered by colleagues and the community alike.
In a touching display of his life outside the uniform, the obituary highlights Wagner's love for gaming, watching baseball, and hockey, as well as the times he cherished relaxing at BBQs with his loved ones. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that memorial contributions be made to The Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, as a means to honor his commitment and service.
The circumstances surrounding Wagner's death are harrowing. The incident occurred on Colorado Avenue, where Wagner and his partner, Officer Peter Gale, were caught unawares by the suspect, later identified as Michael Parker, 28, armed with a high-powered rifle. "This was a deliberate and planned ambush," Elyria Police Chief James Welsh declared, providing an insight into the calculated nature of the fatal encounter, according to WKYC. While Gale suffered injuries to his hand, another responding officer, Brent Payne, was discharged from the hospital but faces a lengthy recovery ahead.
