U.S. Army · United States 
James Anthony Kerstetter
2010
James Anthony Kerstetter served the U.S. Army for 3 years. James served in the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
Gunfire
What Happened
Sergeant James Kerstetter was shot and killed after responding to a call at a home on 18th Street. A mother had called 911 to report that a neighbor had exposed himself to her child and kicked in a window in her home.
The suspect opened fire on officers after they located him at his residence, wounding Sergeant Kerstetter. Other officers returned fire and killed the suspect. Sergeant Kerstetter was transported to EMH Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Sergeant Kerstetter had served with the Elyria Police Department for 15 years and had previously served with the Lorain County Sheriff's Office.
The suspect opened fire on officers after they located him at his residence, wounding Sergeant Kerstetter. Other officers returned fire and killed the suspect. Sergeant Kerstetter was transported to EMH Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Sergeant Kerstetter had served with the Elyria Police Department for 15 years and had previously served with the Lorain County Sheriff's Office.
Survivors
Sergeant Kerstetter is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Service Record
Also Served
Elyria Police Department
Sergeant
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtpat8n3as795a156ndsg
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew James. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor James.
Leave a Tribute