Cpt. Steven Paul Henderson Obituary, Death – A captain with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Department was killed in a head-on collision Thursday night, according to the sheriff’s office. The Oconee County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 49-year-old Captain Steven Paul Henderson of Duncan. Authorities say Henderson was riding his motorcycle on Highway 183 around 8:15 p.m. when the crash occurred. According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Henderson was traveling north when he crossed the centerline, causing his motorcycle to collide head-on with an SUV.
Coroner Karl Addis confirmed Henderson was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash but suffered multiple blunt force injuries and died at the scene. The SUV’s driver sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
On Friday morning, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office posted a tribute on Facebook, expressing grief over Henderson’s death and honoring his long service to the community. The department described Henderson as a dedicated law enforcement officer who spent more than 19 years serving Spartanburg County in multiple capacities.
Before becoming Uniform Patrol Captain, Henderson served as First Lieutenant of the Special Services division, overseeing daily operations. His earlier career included a significant tenure with the Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit, where he started as a handler, advanced to sergeant, and eventually became lieutenant. He also served as an operator on the department’s SWAT Team.
Henderson’s service record was distinguished with numerous honors. These included the Medal of Valor, multiple Deputy of the Quarter awards, and K-9 Handler of the Year for five consecutive years. His professional achievements reflected not only his dedication to the job but also his skill and leadership in law enforcement.
Born and raised in Spartanburg, Henderson had deep roots in the community he served. Prior to his law enforcement career, he was a member of the United States Air Force from 1994 to 1998, further demonstrating his lifelong commitment to public service.
The sheriff’s office emphasized Henderson’s positive impact on the department and the community, noting his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service. The post concluded with a promise to share more details on how the public could honor his memory or support his family in the coming days.
The fatal crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. No additional details about the cause have been released. For now, colleagues, friends, and community members are mourning the sudden loss of a respected officer whose career was marked by dedication, courage, and a deep sense of duty.
Henderson’s passing leaves a significant void in the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Department, where he served in key roles over nearly two decades. His legacy, marked by service in both the military and law enforcement, will be remembered by those who worked alongside him and by the community he protected.
