Deputy Larry Henderson Death & Obituary: CINCINNATI, OH — A devastating series of events has shaken the Greater Cincinnati community, as retired Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson, 61, was tragically killed while directing traffic — just one day after the fatal police shooting of 18-year-old Ryan Hinton. Authorities have identified the suspect in Henderson’s death as Rodney Hinton Jr., Ryan’s father.
Retired Deputy Killed During University of Cincinnati Graduation Traffic Detail
On Friday at approximately 1:00 p.m., Deputy Henderson was assisting with traffic control near the University of Cincinnati, at the intersection of Martin Luther King Drive and Burnet Woods Drive, amid graduation ceremonies. A vehicle entered the intersection and struck Henderson as he directed traffic.
Henderson was transported to UC Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.
Who Was Deputy Larry Henderson?
Deputy Henderson retired in December 2024, concluding a 33-year career with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. During his tenure, he served as:
- A bomb technician
- A dive team commander
- A federal task force officer
Despite retirement, Henderson continued serving as a Special Deputy Patrol Officer. On Friday evening, a solemn law enforcement procession paid tribute to his lifelong dedication.
Rodney Hinton Jr. Identified as Suspect in Fatal Crash
Police have charged Rodney Hinton Jr. with aggravated murder in the death of Deputy Henderson. In a heartbreaking twist, Rodney is also the father of Ryan Hinton, the teenager shot and killed by Cincinnati police one day earlier in a separate incident in East Price Hill.
Whether Deputy Henderson was intentionally targeted in an act of retaliation remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed if the crash was deliberate or an unfortunate coincidence.
Background: Police-Involved Shooting of Ryan Hinton
The events leading up to the tragedy began Thursday morning when a stolen Kia SUV was located via GPS at the Westview Condominiums in East Price Hill. Cincinnati police arrived to find four individuals, including Ryan Hinton, asleep inside the vehicle.
Shortly after officers attempted to approach, Hinton reportedly fled on foot. According to Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge, bodycam footage shows Hinton pointing a gun at an officer, prompting the officer to fire four to five rounds, striking Hinton twice.
A firearm was recovered at the scene, loaded with a chambered round and two full magazines.
Additional Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Two of the three other suspects have since been apprehended:
- DeAnthony Bullucks, 19, of Over-the-Rhine
- Jurell Austin, 18, of West Price Hill
Both face charges of obstruction and receiving stolen property. One suspect remains at large.
The Citizens’ Complaint Authority and Cincinnati Police Department are conducting internal investigations. The case will be reviewed by the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office.
Community Mourns Deputy Henderson’s Loss
The law enforcement community is mourning the death of a respected and dedicated public servant. The Butler County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement:
“Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the family of the deputy who lost his life in the line of duty. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
A Tragedy That Raises Questions
The tragic deaths of Ryan Hinton and Deputy Larry Henderson, just one day apart and involving the same family, have left Cincinnati in mourning and confusion. Investigations are ongoing, and questions about motive, timing, and justice remain unanswered.
Final Arrangements for Deputy Larry Henderson
Funeral and memorial service details for Deputy Henderson will be shared with the public in the coming days. He is remembered for his courage, loyalty, and decades of service to Hamilton County and the state of Ohio.
