News Summary
Captain Steven Paul Henderson, a dedicated law enforcement officer from Duncan, South Carolina, lost his life in a motorcycle accident on Highway 183. The incident occurred when he collided head-on with a southbound SUV. Henderson, known for his distinguished service and numerous accolades with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation is underway into the cause of the crash, highlighting the risks faced by first responders. The community mourns the loss of a devoted officer who served for over 19 years.
Walhalla, S.C. – Captain Steven Paul Henderson, a 49-year-old law enforcement officer from Duncan, tragically passed away following a head-on motorcycle collision on Highway 183 on the evening of August 14, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m. while Henderson was riding his 2008 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
According to initial assessments from law enforcement officials, Henderson was traveling north when he crossed the centerline and collided with a southbound 2004 Chevrolet SUV. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene due to multiple blunt force injuries. The driver of the SUV sustained injuries and was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital, although their condition remains uncertain at this time.
The Oconee County Coroner’s Office has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, focusing on determining the factors that led to the collision.
Captain Henderson had a distinguished career with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, where he dedicated over 19 years of service. Throughout his time in the department, he held various roles and responsibilities, demonstrating a strong commitment to law enforcement and community safety. Prior to his position as Uniform Patrol Captain, he served as the 1st Lieutenant supervising the SCSO Special Services. Additionally, he was the Lieutenant of the K-9 unit and an active operator on the SWAT Team.
His tireless efforts and dedication to duty earned him numerous awards and accolades during his law enforcement career, including the prestigious Medal of Valor. Henderson was also recognized as Deputy of the Quarter on multiple occasions and honored as K-9 Handler of the Year for five consecutive years, emphasizing his exceptional skill and commitment in handling K-9 units.
Born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Henderson had a history of service that extended beyond law enforcement; he proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1994 to 1998 before embarking on his career in the police force. His longstanding dedication to serving his community and ability to foster strong relationships were hallmarks of his reputation in both the department and the region.
In the wake of Henderson’s death, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office expressed their profound grief and sorrow over the loss of their esteemed colleague. The department indicated they would share information on potential ways for the community to support Henderson’s family or honor his memory as arrangements are made.
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks first responders face daily while serving and protecting their communities. As investigations proceed, the community is left to remember the impact that Captain Henderson made during his dedicated years of service to Spartanburg County.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Spartanburg Co. Sheriff’s Office Issues Statement on Captain Killed in Walhalla Crash
- Wikipedia: Accident
- WSPA: Motorcyclist Killed in Head-On Collision in Oconee Co.
- Google Search: Motorcycle Safety
- WYFF 4: Spartanburg Captain Dies in Motorcycle Crash
- Google Scholar: Motorcycle Accidents
- Post and Courier: Captain Spartanburg Sheriff Killed in Car Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: First Responders
- Fox Carolina: Coroner Motorcyclist Dies After Head-On Collision Near Walhalla
- Google News: Spartanburg County Sheriff
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
