Harford County honors delivery driver who blocked a car to protect student; council marks 10th anniversary of fallen deputies

Harford County Council presented a proclamation on Tuesday recognizing Robert Scott Reynolds, who operates for Same Day Express, after he deliberately positioned his truck on Route 543 on Jan. 9, 2026, to stop another vehicle from entering a crosswalk while a student from C. Milton Wright High School was crossing.

Council members and the Harford County Sheriff's Office said Reynolds' quick action likely prevented serious injury or death. "Scott Reynolds ... demonstrated exceptional awareness and quick judgment while operating his company vehicle on Route 543," Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gaylor read during a sheriff salute presented at the meeting. The sheriff added that the department was proud to honor Reynolds on behalf of its nearly 700 members.

A witness identified as Joanne, who told the council she observed the incident, praised Reynolds and the company's emphasis on safety. "I'm proud that Harford County is recognizing Scott for this," she said, calling the driver's actions "fast" and decisive in a matter of seconds.

The presentation came during opening remarks that also marked the 10th anniversary of the line-of-duty deaths of two Harford County deputies, Pat Daley and Mark Lawson/Logsdon. Council members observed a moment of silence and offered condolences. Council comments throughout the meeting returned to remembrance and thanks to first responders.

The proclamation and sheriff salute were purely honorary recognitions; no formal legislative action or vote was recorded regarding the presentation. The council took photographs with the honorees before moving to business items and scheduled hearings.

What happens next: The council recorded the proclamation in the meeting minutes and closed the presentation without further action. If the county or the sheriff's office pursues additional recognition programs, the council did not announce any follow-up steps at this meeting.