Memorial Service Held for K-9 Officer Coba in Prosperity, SC
PROSPERITY, S.C. – A memorial service took place on June 19 to honor the life and service of K-9 Officer Coba, a brave Belgian Malinois mix who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. K-9 Coba, who was only four years old, was fatally wounded while assisting law enforcement in apprehending a suspect in Newberry County.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred on June 11 when deputies from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fugitive felony warrant at a home on Gravel Road. Upon arriving at the location, they discovered the suspect hiding inside the home of a family member. When K-9 Coba confronted the suspect alongside deputies and agents from the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the suspect opened fire.
In the chaos that ensued, law enforcement officials returned fire while K-9 Coba was severely injured. Following the incident, Coba was rushed to an emergency veterinarian clinic for critical care, but unfortunately, he did not survive his injuries. The suspect was also hospitalized at a local trauma center. Fortunately, several deputies sustained only minor injuries.
Coba’s Contributions
K-9 Coba joined the SLED in 2021 and quickly established himself as a vital member of the team. He served on both the SWAT Team and the K9 Tracking Team, participating in various trainings and apprehensions that promoted the safety of the community and his law enforcement colleagues. He not only served his team with dedication but was also a beloved companion to his handler.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster expressed his sorrow over K-9 Coba’s death via social media, emphasizing the courage of K-9s and their handlers who risk their lives daily for public safety. He stated, “Today, we tragically lost SLED K9 Agent Coba in the line of duty during the apprehension of an armed subject in Newberry County. We are grateful for our K9s, their handlers, and all our law enforcement officers who put their lives at risk each and every day.”
Investigation Update
As of the latest reports, there have been no updates regarding the condition of the suspect involved in the shooting. Protocol dictates that the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office is now conducting an investigation into the incident.
Memorial Service Details
The memorial service on June 19 was held at the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy located at 5400 Broad River Road in Columbia. Community members, fellow officers, and supporters came together to honor and reflect on the service of K-9 Coba. The ceremony provided an opportunity for attendees to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a hero who served their community with love and loyalty.
Community Reaction
The tragic loss of K-9 Coba has deeply affected the local community and law enforcement agencies across South Carolina. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and gratitude for Coba’s service. His contributions will not be forgotten, and he will be remembered as a symbol of dedication and bravery in law enforcement.
As the community continues to heal, they remember K-9 Coba not only as a police dog but as a devoted friend and protector, who gave his all to keep those around him safe. His service and sacrifice will forever be honored by those who had the opportunity to know him.
