Rodney Hinton Jr.: Father of Police Shooting Victim Charged in Deputy’s Death

 

Rodney Hinton Jr.: Father of Police Shooting Victim Charged in Deputy’s Death

A tragic sequence of events unfolded in Cincinnati, Ohio, when Rodney Hinton Jr., 38, was identified as the driver who struck and killed a Hamilton County sheriff’s deputy while the deputy was working a traffic detail near the University of Cincinnati. The incident occurred on May 2, 2025, just one day after Hinton’s 18-year-old son, Ryan Hinton, was shot and killed by Cincinnati police during a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle.

The deputy, whose name has not yet been released, was directing traffic for the university’s commencement ceremony when he was hit. He had recently retired but continued to serve as a special deputy, bringing years of experience to the job. Both the deputy and Rodney Hinton Jr. were transported to the hospital, where the deputy later died. Hinton remains in critical condition and has been charged with aggravated murder.

The day before, police encountered Ryan Hinton as he and others fled a stolen vehicle. Officers reported seeing Ryan with a gun, and after a brief chase, he was shot and killed by police. A firearm and magazine were recovered at the scene, though there is no evidence Ryan fired at officers. Both deaths are under investigation by Cincinnati’s Homicide and Traffic Units.

The community and law enforcement officials have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the deputy, emphasizing his dedication and the respect he earned throughout his career. Local leaders have called for patience and calm as investigations continue, urging the public to let the legal process unfold.

These back-to-back tragedies have deeply affected Cincinnati, highlighting the profound impact of violence and loss on families and the community.