WESTERVILLE — The families of two Westerville police officers fatally shot while responding to a 911 hang-up call say they’re grateful for their community and for the outpouring of support shown in the midst of their loss.
Vigil for fallen officers: Tues., Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m., First Responders Park, 374 W. Main St. -Click here for parking information
In a statement posted on the city’s website, the officers’ families also asked for privacy and say they need time to heal:
STATEMENT OF THE FAMILIES OF OFFICER ANTHONY MORELLI AND OFFICER ERIC JOERING
“We’re very thankful for our family, friends and the Westerville community. We feel loved and
blessed, and we are appreciative of the outpouring of support. We have seen and heard so much
from people who have shared stories about how our men impacted their lives. They will be so
greatly missed, not only by us, but by everyone they touched.Our men were dedicated officers for certain, but we knew them as dedicated fathers and
husbands. When they were home, they were home. They left work at work. We are so sad that
Eric will not see his three daughters’ graduate from high school. We’re devastated Tony will not
be able to walk his daughter down the aisle at her wedding.We want to thank the Westerville Division of Police, the Columbus Division of Police and all the
police agencies in Central Ohio who have helped and supported us. We are thankful for the
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 9 and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. We
know we’re not going to remember everyone right now, but we want to express our gratitude for
the kindness and generosity we have been shown.We are requesting our privacy to mourn our lost husbands and fathers. We need time to heal. We
will be granting no interviews at this time.”
The officers from the northeast Columbus suburb of Westerville, 39-year-old Eric Joering and 54-year-old Anthony Morelli, were shot Saturday at a townhome where the suspect was wounded.
Officials have said the wounded 30-year-old suspect, Quentin Smith, is expected to survive. He has been charged with aggravated murder. Court records didn’t show an attorney for him.
A man accused of providing Smith with a gun also was arrested.
Westerville hasn’t yet shared details on funeral plans for the officers.