Officer John David Dryer Memorial Interchange Dedicated

The Officer John David Dryer Memorial Interchange was dedicated Wednesday during a ceremony on the one-year anniversary of when the East Washington Borough police officer was killed in the line of duty.

The ramps connecting Interstate 70 and Route 136 in Washington County are near where Dryer was shot during a routine traffic stop.

“Officer Dryer gave his life in service to his community. His commitment to our area will be missed, but always remembered,” said state Rep. Brandon Neuman.

Neuman, D-North Strabane, secured unanimous legislative passage of H.B. 2215, which was signed into law as Act 115, to name the interchange in honor of Dryer.

Dryer’s family, friends and colleagues joined Neuman at the ceremony in the J. Barry Stout Park and Ride lot at the interchange. State Sen. Tim Solobay and Rep. Jesse White also attended.

Dryer, 46, worked part-time as a police officer for East Washington and had previously been a police officer for Donegal Township and Midway Borough. He also worked part-time for the Pennsylvania Game Commission and was a full-time veterinarian with his own office in Washington.

“The Dryer family has endured a terrible tragedy. I hope this memorial will bring his family and friends the comfort of knowing that his community is grateful and he will not be forgotten,” Neuman said.