'Still hurts:' Remembering Officer Matthew Rittner one year later

’Still hurts: ’ Remembering Officer Matthew Rittner one year later
NEXT:

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- One year ago today, Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner was killed in the line of duty.

His brothers in blue are still grappling with the tragic loss.

“It still hurts, everyday it hurts," said Dale Bormann Jr., president of the Milwaukee Police Association. "We lost a brother, a family member.”

Rittner, 35, was shot and killed while serving a search warrant on the city’s south side. He was a member of the Tactical Enforcement Unit and a 17-year veteran of the police force. He was also a Marine Corps veteran.

A private tribute was held not only in his memory, but so officers could lean on and support one another. “It’s a luncheon for the officers that worked with Matt on the day he passed," Bormann said. "Being there for each other, talking to each other and enjoying each other’s company.”

Rittner’s death impacted more than just the department and the city. Jen’s Sweet Treats in Cudahy held a fundraiser in his memory so people will never forget his ultimate sacrifice.

“Yes, we are remembering a fallen brother, but he’s in a better place," said Jen Clark, owner. "He’s not suffering and he’s watching down over his kids.”

People from the community came out to honor the fallen officer. “The officers put their lives on the line for the citizenry and to lose an officer just gotta be devastating for the community.”

Jordan Fricke, the man convicted of the fatal shooting of Rittner was sentenced to life in prison without the chance for parole in October. 

Share this article: