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Brandon Intersection Where Deputy Died Is Memorial

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By Anthony McCartney | The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 5, 2007

TAMPA - Clutching a mock-up of a sign that bears her father's name, Ronnee Harrison smiled and imagined his reaction to having an intersection he patrolled named in his honor.

"He's definitely smiling down on this one," Ronnee Harrison said.

Hillsborough County commissioners honored sheriff's Sgt. Ron Harrison for his 28 years of service and designated the intersection of Lumsden Road and Kings Avenue in the slain lawman's honor.

Sgt. Harrison was killed early Aug. 15 when a gunman fired on him shortly after the longtime deputy concluded a drunken driving checkpoint.

Earlier this week, county leaders changed the plan to honor Harrison. They initially intended to designate a half-mile segment of Lumsden Road as a memorial highway. Those plans were changed after several people expressed concern that the designation, which would not have renamed the road or changed any addresses, would lead to confusion.

Commissioner Al Higginbotham said the intersection is a fitting honor because it is a crossroads that "brings communities together."

This morning, Harrison's children said they appreciated the outpouring of support from Hillsborough County residents.

Deputies lined the county commission's chambers during the morning ceremony.

"This memorial will serve as a stark reminder as to how quick things can change," Sheriff David Gee said.

"This was his community," said Reginald Drummond, Harrison's son. He said he often drives by places that remind him of his father. "It's kind of hard not to think about him."

The intersection of Lumsden Road and Kings Avenue now will be another one of those places.

Reporter Anthony McCartney can be reached at (813) 259-7616 or amccartney@tampatrib.com.

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