Cleveland — Approximately 6,000 mourners filled Rocket Arena on Wednesday morning to honor Lorain Police Officer Phillip C. Wagner, who was ambushed and fatally shot in the line of duty. The service drew law enforcement from across Ohio and neighboring states, along with family, city 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 FOP Lodge No. 3. Pastor Smith shared reflections on Wagner’s faith and his intention to serve officers spiritually, and 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.
Mayor 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 held 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.
Wagner was privately laid to rest at York Chapel Cemetery in Bellevue, Ohio.
He was 35 years old; 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.
On July 22, 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.
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,” one speaker said. “And we will carry his mission forward.” Father Doug Brown, Cleveland Police Chaplain closed with. Taps was then played and Officer Wagner’s casket was rolled away as his family, friends, the Lorain Police Department and fellow law enforcement surrounded him.
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.
📸 Photo Gallery: View images from the memorial on Facebook