Lawmakers support renaming part of Ohio 4 for Patrick Wolterman

It’s taken a few detours, but “Firefighter and Paramedic Patrick Wolterman Memorial Highway” will be a reality.

Ohio Rep. Wes Retherford, R-Hamilton, introduced a bill earlier this year to rename a portion of Ohio 4 — from North Fair Avenue to High Street — for the Hamilton firefighter who died in the line of duty in December 2015.

The bill was added to Senate Bill 86 in June when it was passed out of a House committee. However, the amendments added had yet to be concurred by the Senate.

Then later in June, the road naming bill was added to House Bill 347, which includes a number of other road naming amendments. That bill is ready for Ohio Gov. John Kasich to be signed.

“To the family of Patrick Wolterman, and to his brothers and sisters on the Fire Department, this bill is very important — and really to this community, too,” said Retherford. “Patrick died a hero serving this community and his sacrifices to this community is recognized.”

The 28-year-old Wolterman died on Dec. 28, 2015, battling a blaze at a Hamilton home. That fire was later determined to be intentionally set. Lester Parker and William Tucker were found guilty in November 2017 of murder and arson and sentenced to life in prison.

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About the Author

Michael D. Pitman

Michael D. Pitman has been a reporter in southwest Ohio since 1999. He's covered local governments in Warren and Butler counties, as well as state and national issues. He currently covers the cities of Fairfield and Hamilton.