House Approves 'Deputy Sheriff Bill Bender and Trooper Randy Bender Memorial Highway' Bill

COLUMBUS – Legislation designating a portion of State Route 309 in Marion County as the “Deputy Sheriff Bill Bender and Trooper Randy Bender Memorial Highway” has been approved by the Ohio House of Representatives, announced State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville).

In 1973, Deputy Sheriff William “Bill” Bender was killed along Route 309 in Marion while on the way 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.

“In sad and unusual circumstances, a father and son were both killed in the line of duty,” said Richardson. “This memorial highway is a simple way to honor these local heroes and ensure our community will not forget their bravery and sacrifice.”

Richardson originally introduced the measure as House Bill 26, which was amended in to House Bill 291 during House Transportation and Public Safety Committee to include other road designations across the state. 

H.B. 291 now advances to the Senate for consideration.