Bill Creating 'Deputy Sheriff Bill Bender and Trooper Randy Bender Memorial Highway' Passes House Committee

COLUMBUS — This week, State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) provided sponsor testimony on House Bill 26, legislation that designates a portion of State Route 309 in Marion County as the “Deputy Sheriff Bill Bender and Trooper Randy Bender Memorial Highway.”

In 1973, Deputy Sheriff William “Bill” Bender was killed along Route 309 in Marion while en route to set up a road block as a result of an escape from a nearby jail. Just 9 years later, his son Trooper William “Randy” Bender died after being struck by a tractor trailer while directing traffic at a construction site.

“The sacrifice of these officers as they served our communities and the unique pain their family has endured should be recognized,” said Richardson. “This road designation ensures they are not forgotten and will honor them with a permanent tribute in their community.”

On Tuesday, H.B. 26 was unanimously voted out of the House Transportation and Public Safety Committee. 

The bill now awaits full consideration on the House floor.