Twelve years have passed since three PIttsburgh Police officers from Zone 5 were killed in the line of duty.

On April 4, 2009, Officer Eric Kelly, Officer Stephen Mayhle and Officer Paul Sciullo answered a call without question or hesitation and ended up making the ultimate sacrifice. 

"There isn't a day that goes by that the horror of that day isn't emblazoned in my mind, but I will always choose to remember Eric, Stephen, and Paul by focusing on the dedicated and brave men they were and the honorable lives they lived protecting the city they loved. They are missed every day. Their families will forever be part of our police family," said Police Chief Scott Schubert.

From Zone 5 Commander Stephen Vinansky, "Although it has been some time since this tragic day, the memories of the love, kindness, and strength they gave us are still very much with us today.  Eric, Stephen, and Paul will live forever in our hearts and minds, and their brave sacrifices shall never, nor can they ever, be forgotten.  Our thoughts and prayers are always with their families as we reflect on the blessings of the fond memories we shared with them."

Due to pandemic precautions, there will be no formal ceremony to honor the fallen officers this year, but wreaths will be laid at the permanent tribute outside Zone 5 station.

"We will always remember these men who lost their lives protecting Pittsburgh’s citizens. I ask that we spend a few minutes remembering Officers Kelly, Mayhle and Sciullo and pray for all of the first responders who protect our lives daily," Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said.

Mayor William Peduto, "Twelve years later, the sacrifices made by Officers Kelly, Mayhle and Sciullo live on in the hearts of all of Pittsburghers, and I know many will join me on this Easter Sunday to say a prayer in their memory."

Lest we forget.