Memorial Service Held for K-9 Officer Killed in the Line of Duty
Prosperity, S.C. – A somber atmosphere filled the air this past week as the community gathered to honor K-9 Officer Coba, a dedicated police dog who lost his life during a dramatic incident in Newberry County. Coba was shot while assisting law enforcement in a dangerous situation involving an armed suspect.
Incident Overview
The tragic events unfolded on June 11, 2024, when deputies were called to a home along Gravel Road to serve a fugitive felony warrant. Upon reaching the location, law enforcement discovered the suspect hiding inside a family member’s home. As K-9 Coba, alongside a deputy and agents from the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), confronted the suspect, the situation turned violent. The suspect opened fire on K-9 Coba, prompting law enforcement to return fire.
Following the gunfire, K-9 Coba was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic for urgent care, while the suspect was taken to a local trauma center. Some deputies on the scene also suffered minor injuries from the incident, needing treatment for cuts.
Coba’s Service to the Community
K-9 Officer Coba was a four-year-old Belgian Malinois mix who joined SLED in 2021. During his tenure, Coba served on the SLED SWAT Team and the K9 Tracking Team, taking part in numerous training sessions and apprehensions that ensured safety in various communities. His loyalty and service were recognized by many, including Governor Henry McMaster, who expressed his condolences on social media, acknowledging the risks that K-9s and their handlers take every day.
Memorial Ceremony Details
In remembrance of K-9 Coba, SLED has arranged a memorial service, set to take place on June 19 at the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy, located at 5400 Broad River Road in Columbia. The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m., where members of the community and law enforcement will come together to honor the life and service of this brave K-9 officer.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Coba’s death is being handled by the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office, in accordance with established protocols. Currently, there are no updates available regarding the suspect’s condition, as officials continue to look into the case. Further details may emerge as the investigation unfolds.
Community Response
The news of K-9 Coba’s passing has deeply affected the local community and those who work in law enforcement. Many have taken to social media and local gatherings to express their grief and extend condolences to Coba’s handler and the SLED team. The passing of this beloved K-9 serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by police dogs and their human counterparts while keeping the community safe.
The memorial service is expected to draw many individuals who wish to pay their respects to K-9 Coba, who dedicated his life to public safety and protecting others during his time in service.
