Video reveals police shooting of 18-year-old; father implicated in deputy’s murder
Newly released video footage sheds light on the events leading up to the arrest of three individuals accused of stealing a car, just moments before the tragic death of 18-year-old Ryan Hinton in May of 2025. The footage captured the arrests of Jurell Austin, 18, Deanthony Bullocks, 19, and Cynsere Grigsby, 18, as they were taken into custody by law enforcement.
Tragedy struck on May 1, 2025, when Cincinnati police fatally shot Ryan Hinton after he allegedly stole a car, fled from authorities, and brandished a gun in a threatening manner towards an officer. The day following this incident, Rodney Hinton Jr., 39, the father of Ryan Hinton, intentionally drove his vehicle into retired Deputy Larry Henderson, resulting in Henderson’s death.
The Cincinnati Police Department has released numerous videos detailing the sequence of events that preceded these tragic occurrences. These videos, which include body camera, doorbell camera, and cruiser footage, provide crucial insights into the incidents that unfolded.
Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich has refrained from commenting on the video releases and their significance. Rodney Hinton Jr. has been charged with murder and two counts of felonious assault following the incident. He was initially indicted on multiple charges, including aggravated murder, after the fatal collision with Deputy Larry Henderson. Subsequent investigations revealed that Hinton’s actions were a direct response to viewing the police body camera footage of his son’s shooting just days prior.
Rodney Hinton Jr. has entered a not guilty by reason of insanity plea, citing a diagnosis of bipolar disorder by a court-appointed mental health expert. This plea has resulted in the postponement of the trial on multiple occasions. With the addition of a new expert, Dr. Maria Espinola, the defense has requested additional time to prepare adequately. Prosecutors have raised concerns regarding the fairness of the trial timeline, highlighting the challenges they face in light of the evolving defense strategy.
The defense has emphasized the need for sufficient time to prepare for the trial, particularly given the transition from a death penalty case to one focused on not guilty by reason of insanity. Judge Jody Leubbers acknowledged the validity of these concerns and granted a continuance, although a new trial date has not yet been determined. Both the defense and prosecution must come to an agreement on a suitable trial date in the coming days.
In addition to the charges related to the incident involving Deputy Larry Henderson, Rodney Hinton Jr. faces three counts of felonious assault stemming from an altercation with two corrections officers in Clermont County. These charges further complicate the legal proceedings surrounding the tragic events that unfolded in May of 2025.