Lorain, Ohio – Ohio State Representative Joseph Miller announced Thursday morning that he is introducing legislation to rename a section of State Route 6 as “Officer Phillip Wagner Memorial Highway.”
“Renaming this portion of SR 6 is an initial step in honoring Officer Phillip Wagner’s sacrifice in the line of duty in a long journey to recovery for his fellow officers, the greater Lorain community, and most importantly, his loved ones,” Miller said in a written statement.
“Officer Phillip Wagner Memorial Highway” would begin on State Route 6 just outside the Lorain Police Department and end where SR 6 meets SR 58.
Community members believe the potential renaming is a lovely way to honor Lorain’s fallen officer.
“It’s a wonderful way to eternalize the sacrifice he made for his community,” said Felicia Simulcik.
Marjorie Potts is another Lorain resident with two relatives who work in law enforcement. She claimed the ambush occurred close to home.
According to Potts, Lorain residents will undoubtedly support this rename.
“I think it’s an excellent idea, and the community would stand behind it, because with the overwhelming amount of support that they gave, there should be something that lasts for a long, long time.”
She also stated that she hopes the renaming serves as a reminder of what officers face in the line of duty for everyone who travels on SR 6.
“Well, I think when they drive it and they see his name on the signs, it would bring back the feeling of how the community came together, and how he gave his life for this community.”
Representative Miller said the official bill would be introduced in the coming days.
Until then, the Lorain community will continue to honor Officer Phillip Wagner.
“What a beautiful way to memorialize the sacrifices that officers, and any sort of law enforcement or public safety, put in every day,” said Felicia Simulcik, a policewoman.
