A portion of State Route 56 in Pickaway County is poised to be renamed in honor of a fallen local law enforcement officer.
House Bill 37, introduced during the 136th General Assembly (2025–2026) by State Rep. Brian Stewart (R-Ashville), would designate the stretch of State Route 56 between State Route 316 and the Madison County line as the “Detective Rex Emrick Memorial Highway.”
The legislation enacts section 5534.443 of the Ohio Revised Code and authorizes the Ohio Department of Transportation director to install signage marking the memorial designation.
The bill has passed the Ohio General Assembly and now sits on the desk of Gov. Mike DeWine awaiting his signature.
Honoring a Life of Service
Detective Rex Emrick, a deputy with the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, died in the line of duty on January 26, 2021. Lawmakers say the highway naming is intended to permanently recognize his dedication and sacrifice.
“Detective Emrick was a strong leader and faithful public servant in our community,” Stewart said. “Renaming this road in his honor is just a small way to pay tribute to his legacy of service.”
Pickaway County Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey also praised the effort.
“Detective Rex Emrick was not only a well-respected member of the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office but a very loved member of our community,” Hafey said. “The naming of the roadway in his honor will help his memory and legacy live on forever.”
Community Involvement
In addition to his service in law enforcement, Emrick was active in several civic and fraternal organizations. He was a member of Pickaway Lodge #23 F & AM, the Provost Unit of Aladdin Shrine, Pickaway Shrine, the Scottish Rite, and the Sons of the American Revolution.
If signed into law, the roadway designation will serve as a lasting tribute along one of Pickaway County’s main routes — ensuring that motorists traveling State Route 56 are reminded of Detective Emrick’s service and sacrifice for years to come.
