House Joint Resolution 5 to rename Hwy. 127 passed unanimously in the Kentucky House and Senate and was signed by Gov. Beshear on April 2.
The resolution honors Deputy Joshua Phipps’ dedication to the community and ultimate sacrifice by designating the entirety of US Route 127 in Russell County as Deputy Joshua Phipps Memorial Highway.
Deputy Phipps died in the line of duty on Sept. 16, 2024 while assisting state troopers apprehend a repeat offender and felon. The suspect fled on foot after firing several shots at a state trooper.
Joshua Phipps was a native of Adair County and had been a Russell County Sheriff Deputy for three years. He also had served as a police officer in Jefferson County for two years.
The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Josh Branscum (R-Russell Springs). Branscum said in a press release, “Deputy Sheriff Joshua Phipps gave his life and paid the ultimate sacrifice serving and protecting his community. The passing of Deputy Sheriff Joshua Phipps has left a scar on his family, our community, and his brothers and sisters in law enforcement.”
New memorial highway signs will be added in the next 30 days.
