Johnson City Roadway Renamed in Memory of Fallen Police Officer

A portion of a heavily traveled road in Johnson City is being named after a fallen Village Police Officer. 

New York State Senator Fred Akshar (R-Binghamton), Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell), Johnson City Police Chief Brent Dodge, Police Chaplain Father Dennis Ruda, representatives of the New York State Department of Transportation and the family of Officer David D.W. Smith Junior unveiled the new sign designating part of the Main Street, New York Route 17C in the Village the “Patrolman David DW Smith Memorial Highway.” 

The veteran patrolman was gunned down near Wilson Hospital in 2014 after responding to a report of a disturbed man. The man grabbed Patrolman Smith’s service weapon and fatally shot him before that man was fatally shot by other responding officers. 

Smith served 18-and-a-half years with the Johnson City Police Force.  He was the treasurer of the J.C. Police Benevolent Association and was awarded a Certificate of Exceptional Valor in 2002. 

The Arch Street Bridge in the Village was named in memory of Officer Smith several years ago and a memorial run and blood drive are held every year, pointing to the late officer’s love for his community and his commitment to serve. 

Those at the dedication ceremony repeatedly called the fallen officer “a true public servant” and his dedication to the community. The memorial will also be a reminder of the sacrifices that are made every day by men and women in law enforcement. 

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Officer Smith is survived by his wife, Christian, his son, Andrew and his parents, David and Phyllis Smith Senior. 

Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill to rename the portion of Route 17C in memory of Smith in June.