Salisbury to Honor Officer Henry Stephens This Friday

Salisbury, MD - The City of Salisbury will hold a road dedication ceremony this Friday to honor a police officer who died in the line of duty more than 65 years ago.

The Henry T. Stephens Way Road Dedication and National Police Week Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11 a.m. at 110 W. Church Street, the former Salisbury Police Department headquarters.

Officer Henry Stephens gave his life in service on September 6, 1958. The 100 block of West Church Street will be officially renamed in his memory.

Salisbury Police Chief David Meienschein spoke to the weight of the occasion. "During Police Week and Police Memorial Day, we forever honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others, especially Salisbury Police Officer Henry Stephens, who gave his life in the line of duty on September 6, 1958. The honorary renaming of the 100 block of West Church Street ensures his sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Mayor Randy Taylor also shared his thoughts on what the ceremony represents. "We want to take this opportunity during National Police Week to honor the officers who gave their lives in service and thank those who continue to stand watch over our community every day."

Community members, public officials, law enforcement personnel, and guests are all welcome to attend. The city wants this to be a community event.

Parking will be available at the downtown parking garage at 111 Circle Ave. or in surrounding downtown areas. Parking enforcement in the downtown area will be suspended from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. on Friday to make it easier for attendees.

Drivers should be aware of temporary road closures in the area. W. Church Street between St. Peter's Street and N. Division Street will be closed starting Thursday, May 14, at 4 p.m. through Friday, May 15, at 4 p.m.

Residents and motorists are asked to plan ahead, use alternate routes, and give themselves extra travel time during that window.

This is a chance for the Salisbury community to come together and make sure an officer's sacrifice is never forgotten.