CLEVELAND — Editor's Note: The above video aired on February 10, 2021
The Cleveland Division of Police announced the death of Officer Erwin Eberhardt on Friday. He was 53 years old.
According to a release from the city, Eberhardt passed away suddenly on Thursday.
Officer Eberhardt spent more than 30 years as a member of the Cleveland Division of Police. After graduating from the Police Academy, he was assigned to the Second District where he served for many years. Eberhardt also served with the First District, Fourth District, the Airport Unit and the Police Academy, where he trained hundreds of recruits to become Cleveland Police Officers. In addition, he instructed at the Cuyahoga Community College Police Academy.
Eberhardt "was well known and beloved by the trainees as someone who always provided support and humor as he was always there to lighten the load of law enforcement training," the city added in its release.
Erwin Eberhardt was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving multiple overseas deployments, including Operation Enduring Freedom. His military training primed him to become one of the longest serving members of the Cleveland Division of Police Honor Guard. During his service within the Honor Guard, he participated in countless parades and events, including services for fallen officers.
Officer Eberhardt is survived by his four children, three grandchildren, his father, and grandmother.
In recognition of of Officer Eberhardt's service, Mayor Frank G. Jackson has authorized the lowering of the American Flag at all police stations in the City of Cleveland from sunset today, February 19, until sunrise the day after funeral services.
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Editor's Note: The below video aired on August 19, 2020