A portion of Interstate 70 in Clark County is to be named in honor of sheriff’s Deputy Suzanne Hopper, who was slain in the line of duty on New Year’s Day 2011, according to legislation passed by the Ohio Senate on Tuesday.

According to state Sen. Chris Widener, R-Springfield, House Bill 325 creates memorial highway and bridge namings throughout the state in recognition of the sacrifices made by Ohioans serving in the armed forces and in law enforcement.

The Deputy Suzanne Hopper Memorial Highway will be located along I-70 between I-675 and Enon Road.

“Deputy Suzanne Hopper was killed in the line of duty while selflessly protecting the citizens of Clark County,” said Widener, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a member of the state’s Controlling Board.

“While we are very saddened to have lost such a dedicated officer, we hope to honor her sacrifice by naming a portion of this major Ohio thoroughfare in her honor. Every time residents of Ohio and other states drive on this portion of Interstate 70, we will remember her service and celebrate her life.”

Hopper, 40, was shot to death while investigating a domestic dispute at the Enon Beach Mobile Home park in Enon. The gunman, Michael Ferryman, also died in a shootout with officers.