A tragic incident unfolded in Cincinnati, where a sheriff’s deputy was killed after being hit by a car driven by Rodney Hinton Jr., the father of an 18-year-old man fatally shot by police just a day earlier. Prosecutors have described the event as premeditated, accusing Hinton Jr. of intentionally accelerating his vehicle to strike the deputy, who was directing traffic near the University of Cincinnati during a commencement ceremony.
The deputy, whose name has not been released due to privacy laws, was recently retired but continued to serve as a special deputy. Local authorities have confirmed that he was taken to a medical centre but succumbed to his injuries. Prosecuting attorney Ryan Nelson has indicated that an aggravated murder indictment is being sought against Hinton Jr.
The backstory reveals that Ryan Hinton, the deceased teenager, had fled from a stolen vehicle when police responded to the scene. Body camera footage from the encounter shows that he was armed and allegedly pointed a gun at officers, which led to the police firing shots. The circumstances surrounding the police shooting have raised questions, as the body cam footage does not clearly show Hinton aiming his weapon at the officers.
Family attorney Michael Wright described Ryan Hinton as “fun, loving, and a good kid,” expressing shock over the events that transpired. Following his son’s death, Hinton Jr. allegedly acted with extreme aggression toward law enforcement, resulting in the deputy’s killing.
Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey underscored the deputy’s significant contributions to public service, while Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge called for patience from the community as investigations into both the police shooting and the deputy’s death are conducted. The community is left grappling with the emotional weight of these two tragic events occurring in quick succession.
Officials, including Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, have condemned the violent act against the deputy, emphasising the community’s loss and the sorrow felt across law enforcement circles. The family of Ryan Hinton has expressed condolences to the deputy’s family, recognising the tragedy from both sides of the situation.
The judicial proceedings will continue, with Hinton Jr. remaining in custody until a hearing takes place on Tuesday.