In a heartbreaking series of events, authorities have identified Rodney Hinton Jr. as the man responsible for the tragic death of retired Hamilton County Deputy Larry Henderson. What has made this incident even more tragic is the connection to a police shooting that occurred just one day earlier. The emotional weight of these two tragedies has deeply affected law enforcement and the Greater Cincinnati community.
Deputy Larry Henderson Killed While Directing Traffic
The fatal incident occurred Friday afternoon around 1 p.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King Drive and Burnet Woods Drive, near the University of Cincinnati campus during graduation ceremonies.
Larry Henderson, a retired deputy with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, was directing traffic as part of a special detail when he was struck by a vehicle. He was rushed to UC Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Henderson, who retired in December 2024 after 33 years of service, had a distinguished career that included serving as a bomb technician, dive team commander, and working with federal task forces.
A somber procession was held Friday evening to honor Henderson’s legacy, with law enforcement agencies from across the region paying their respects.
Rodney Hinton Jr. Identified as Suspect in Deputy’s Death
Police later identified Rodney Hinton Jr. as the driver of the vehicle that struck Deputy Henderson. Hinton has been charged with aggravated murder in connection with Henderson’s death.
What made this case even more tragic was the connection between Hinton Jr. and the earlier police shooting of his son, Ryan Hinton, on Thursday. The 18-year-old Ryan Hinton was fatally shot by Cincinnati police during a confrontation in East Price Hill.
It remains unclear whether the fatal traffic incident involving Hinton Jr. was intentional or an unfortunate coincidence, and the investigation into the matter is ongoing.
The East Price Hill Police Shooting: What Led to the Fatal Incident
The tragic chain of events began on Thursday morning when a Kia SUV was reported stolen by a man from Edgewood, Kentucky. GPS tracking led police to the Westview Condominiums in East Price Hill, where they found Ryan Hinton and others in the stolen vehicle.
According to reports, a foot chase ensued after police arrived, and Ryan Hinton allegedly pointed a gun at officers. The officer involved in the incident fired multiple shots, fatally wounding Hinton. Police later recovered a firearm from the scene.
Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge confirmed that bodycam footage showed Hinton in a “bladed position” as he allegedly pointed a weapon at officers. The incident is under investigation by the Cincinnati Police Department and the Citizens’ Complaint Authority.
Investigation Underway: Questions Remain
As the investigations into both incidents continue, Cincinnati Police are working alongside the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office to review the circumstances surrounding both the police shooting and the traffic incident.
Meanwhile, two other suspects connected to the stolen vehicle incident have been arrested and charged, while a fourth suspect remains at large.
Remembering Deputy Larry Henderson
Deputy Larry Henderson‘s death has left a deep void within the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the law enforcement community at large. His service was marked by dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to the safety and security of the Greater Cincinnati area.
The Butler County Sheriff’s Office released a statement expressing their condolences to Henderson’s family, saying, “Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Conclusion: Two Tragedies, One Community
The death of Deputy Larry Henderson and the police shooting of his son, Ryan Hinton, have left the Greater Cincinnati community in shock and mourning. The complex and tragic series of events underscores the unpredictable and often heartbreaking nature of law enforcement.
As investigations into both incidents continue, local authorities and the public hope for justice and clarity in the coming weeks.
Deputy Henderson’s funeral arrangements will be announced soon, and he will be remembered for his lifetime of service and commitment to his community.