Friends of fallen Elyria police officer speak out

ELYRIA, Ohio - People all over Elyria who knew Patrolman James Kerstetter as "Officer Jim,"  said this is a huge loss and he will never be forgotten. 

Business owners put up signs to show their love and support for this fallen officer. Dozens of people came to lay flowers down at the memorial in his honor outside of the Elyria police station.

Kerstetter was shot and killed on-duty, while responding to a call Monday night. The man police said shot him, was fatally shot by other responding officers.

On Tuesday, it was clear the huge mark Kerstetter made on the community he served and the people he protected.

Some said they waited for his smile and wave every morning as he drove around in his patrol car. Others said they couldn't wait to see him at the local coffee shops, just to hear a friendly hello.

A fund will be set up at First Merit Bank in the name of James A. Kerstetter donations can be made at any First Merit Bank.