Detective Robert James Clark II, 36, with six years on the Cleveland Police Department, was shot and killed on July 1, 1998 while attempting to arrest a suspect involved in a drug transaction. Clark and Vice Detectives Keith Haven and Ray Diaz pursued the suspect into a stairway at 10010 Madison Avenue. During a struggle the detectives were pushed down a flight of stairs; as they fell the suspect fired, striking Detective Clark four times. The wounds proved fatal. Detective Haven returned fire and killed the suspect, who was identified as a drug dealer.

Clark had received numerous citations for bravery and distinguished service during his career and is survived by his wife Cathy and three children, Melissa, Alaina, and Robbie Jr. His name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall in Washington D.C.

Does anyone have additional details about the events at 10010 Madison Avenue or memories of Detective Clark’s service?