Officer Wagner honored

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. Jones reported from Cleveland. Register staffers Erin Caldwell, Clay Ross and Bill Theisen reported from the areas of Erie and Sandusky counties. CLEVELAND — About 6,000 mourners filled Rocket Arena in Cleveland on Wednesday morning to honor Lorain police Officer Phillip Wagner, who was ambushed and fatally shot in the line of duty last week. His service drew law enforcement from across Ohio and neighboring states along with family, local government officials and community members. The arena floor was lined with uniformed officers, and two complete lower bowl seating sections on each side were occupied by his fellow officers. Civic leaders, family and visiting residents filled the other seating areas. The Cleveland Police Honor Guard led the procession into the arena, accompanied by bagpipes and a ceremonial police band, setting a solemn tone as Wagner's casket entered. Speakers included Lorain police Chief Michael Failing, Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley, Pastor Josh Smith and Detective Matt Hartman, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 3. Smith shared reflections on Wagner's faith and his intention to serve officers spiritually. Hartman delivered remarks on behalf of the union, recalling Wagner's genuine passion for law enforcement. He shared a memory of Wagner's excitement when a rare firearm was turned in, an example of his deep dedication. Bradley proclaimed July 24 as Officer Phillip Wagner Day in Lorain, honoring the date of his death and his service. As the ceremony concluded, a final radio call officially retired Wagner's badge number, 4178. The crowd observed a moment of silence as the dispatcher said, "We'll take it from here." After the service, a law enforcement motorcade escorted Wagner's casket toward Lorain County. Along the route from downtown Cleveland to Sheffield Township, hundreds of first responders and community members lined roadside areas and overpasses. Many held U.S. flags or stood at attention as the procession passed, creating a poignant public tribute. The impact of his death was felt across the region. While his badge is retired, Wagner's legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, sacrifice and the unity that can follow tragedy. "We promise to never forget," Cleveland police Chaplain Fr. Doug Brown said. "And we will carry his mission forward." As the sound of bagpipes faded and the final salutes were given, Officer Phillip Wagner's legacy endured in the faces of those he served with, and in the hearts of a grateful community that stood still to remember him. Wagner's graveside service was private at York Chapel Cemetery near Bellevue. What happened On July 23, Wagner and Officer Peter Gale were ambushed while parked during a lunch break in Lorain. Both were shot. Officer Brent Payne was injured while responding to the scene. Wagner was transported to MetroHealth Medical Center where he died the next day. Gale sustained a hand injury, and Payne recovered after surgery. Wagner was 35 years old and also a Marine Corps veteran, husband and father of three. He had recently completed SWAT training, fulfilling a professional ambition. He was widely described by colleagues as a skilled operator with a sharp sense of humor and strong leadership. 'Let his family know that we care' Leaving from Cleveland, a large funeral procession traveled to its destination in Sandusky County. Many people came out to line the sides of the road to pay their respects to Wagner. Near the Groton Township administration building on Portland Road (County Road 32), dozens of people gathered, some carrying the "thin blue line" police flag and others carrying American flags. The sign outside the administration building bore the message: "Rest in peace, Officer Wagner." Some standing on the roadside spoke to the newspaper about why they decided to come out, including: • Sean Rohrbacher, who said: "In today's day in age, a lot of people don't like cops. They're found as the enemy. Anyone that gives their life in the line of duty or overseas fighting for our country, they deserve the utmost respect." • Steve Rohlf, who said he came out "to show respect to Officer Wagner, his family and anyone impacted" and to "let his family know that we care."