Beloved Hamilton County Deputy Killed While Directing Traffic Near University of Cincinnati: Community Mourns as Suspect Faces Aggravated Murder Charge
Cincinnati, OH – May 4, 2025
The Hamilton County community is reeling from the devastating loss of a respected sheriff’s deputy who was killed in the line of duty on Friday, May 2, while directing traffic near the University of Cincinnati. The deputy—whose name has not yet been officially released out of respect for family—was struck by a vehicle in what authorities are calling an intentional act of violence.
The incident occurred just after 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King Drive and Burnet Woods Drive. The deputy was on special duty for commencement events at the University of Cincinnati, ensuring traffic flowed safely around a busy campus.
Emergency personnel rushed to the scene, and the deputy was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
A Calculated Attack Tied to a Tragic Chain of Events
The man behind the wheel was identified as 38-year-old Rodney Hinton Jr., the father of Ryan Hinton—a teenager who was fatally shot by Cincinnati police the day before during a vehicle pursuit involving a reported stolen car. According to investigators, Rodney Hinton allegedly targeted the deputy in a retaliatory act, striking him deliberately with his vehicle.
Prosecutors have charged Hinton with aggravated murder. During a court appearance on Saturday, May 3, the judge denied bond, citing the seriousness of the crime and the calculated nature of the act. Hinton is expected to appear in court again on Tuesday.
Sheriff, Officials, and Governor React
Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey, clearly emotional, spoke to the media, calling the slain deputy “one of the most well-respected members of our team,” and describing his death as “a senseless act of violence against someone who dedicated their life to protecting others.” The deputy had retired in December 2024 but returned to service part-time to support high-profile events like the university’s graduation.
Governor Mike DeWine also released a statement:
“Fran and I are saddened by the tragic loss of a Hamilton County deputy killed in the line of duty. We are sickened by what appears to be an intentional attack, and we extend our prayers and condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and friends.”
The University of Cincinnati held a moment of silence during its commencement ceremony to honor the fallen officer, acknowledging his sacrifice and service.
Community Support and Grief
Law enforcement officers across the region have expressed their support and grief. A large group of deputies stood in solidarity during Hinton’s court appearance. The deputy’s colleagues remembered him as a humble, dedicated professional who never hesitated to return to duty, even in retirement.
The incident has prompted renewed concerns about violence toward law enforcement and the ripple effects of tragedies that escalate into cycles of retaliation.
Ongoing Investigation
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Cincinnati Police Department and prosecutors, is continuing to investigate the motive and details surrounding both deaths—the police-involved shooting of Ryan Hinton and the subsequent killing of the deputy.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left mourning a beloved public servant whose life was taken too soon. Support is being offered to the deputy’s family, both through the sheriff’s department and local outreach organizations.
In Memory
As one officer at the scene said simply, “He wore the badge with honor. He deserved to go home.”
A public memorial is expected to be announced in the coming days, as the community comes together to honor a man who gave his life in service.
May he rest in peace.