https://scdps.sc.gov/in-memory/traylor

Columbia, SC -- The South Carolina Department of Public Safety held a highway dedication ceremony today in honor of Patrolman Jimmy A. Traylor who was killed in the line of duty on December 25, 1970, in Sumter.

Family and friends, SCDPS officials, Sen. Thomas McElveen, District 35/Sumter County, Rep. Murrell Smith Jr., District 67/Sumter County, and Rep. J. David Weeks, District 51/Sumter County, attended the ceremony at Northside Memorial Baptist Church in Sumter.

 Traylor was killed on Christmas Day nearly 47 years ago when he was called to assist another Patrolman – Robert Falls. Falls had pursued a vehicle for a traffic violation with a father and son inside the vehicle. The violators returned to their own residence and exited the vehicle. When Traylor arrived on the scene to assist Falls, the men began fighting with the troopers. The son shot both Falls and Traylor multiple times. Falls was seriously injured and Traylor died from his injuries.

“Our department remains grateful to the many people it takes to make these days a reality – including the Traylor family, the SC Department of Transportation and the General Assembly who helps us see that our men who died serving receive this most fitting tribute to honor their sacrifice,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith.

“The SC Department of Transportation has named the overpass located along Lafayette Drive in the City of Sumter: “SCHP Patrolman Jimmy A. Traylor Memorial Bridge.”

Traylor was active in civic clubs and attended Northside Memorial Baptist Church where his funeral was held and nearly 47 years later where the dedication was held to honor his service.

“It was a privilege to reconnect with the Traylor family for this important occasion in the life of the Highway Patrol and the Traylor family,” said Highway Patrol Col. Michael Oliver. “This highway overpass will ensure that the residents and visitors of Sumter County never forget Patrolman Traylor who gave the ultimate sacrifice serving his community and state.”

Patrolman Traylor, a native of Fairfield County, graduated from Monticello High School at Blair in 1958. He briefly worked for the Highway Department in the maintenance section before joining the South Carolina Highway Patrol on September 1, 1963. He became a patrolman first class on June 25, 1967.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, Immigration Enforcement Unit and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors. www.scdps.gov