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Richland County Community Mourning Loss of K9 Bumi

Community members gather to honor the memory of K9 Bumi.

News Summary

The Richland County community is devastated by the tragic death of K9 Bumi, a beloved police dog who was fatally shot during a chase involving a stolen vehicle. Following the incident, multiple arrests have been made, including one individual who is only 17 years old. Community members have come together to mourn Bumi and show support for law enforcement amidst rising concerns for officer safety. This incident marks a disturbing trend for K9 officers in the area, amplifying the call for action and community vigilance.

Richland County Community Rocked by K9 Bumi’s Tragic Death

In a heart-wrenching turn of events that has left the community of Richland County reeling, the beloved K9 officer, Bumi, was tragically shot and killed during a chase involving a stolen vehicle. This deeply saddening incident unfolded early on a Monday morning when deputies attempted to stop a car that had been reported stolen. The chase that ensued proved dangerous not just for the suspects involved but for the loyal K9 who put his life on the line.

Arrests Made in Connection with the Incident

In connection with this heartbreaking case, 17-year-old Damian Brown has been arrested and will face charges as an adult. Brown has been identified as the driver of the stolen vehicle that was involved in the fatal shooting of K9 Bumi. His charges include a laundry list of serious offenses such as Grand Larceny, Failure to Stop for Blue Lights, Accessory Before the Fact, and Unlawful Carry and Possession of a Weapon under 18.

But the troubling news doesn’t end there. Earlier in the week, two juveniles were also taken into custody, one of whom is just 13 years old. This young shooter is believed to have fired multiple shots at K9 Bumi, resulting in the tragic outcome that has left many in despair.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of K9 Bumi has not just impacted the Richland County Sheriff’s Department but has tugged at the heartstrings of the entire community. On December 27th, people came together to participate in a moving procession held in West Columbia to honor Bumi’s service and memory. The emotional toll on Deputy Alan Ware and his family is profound, as they grapple with the loss of their brave partner.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Safety Concerns

As law enforcement continues to investigate the incident, authorities have labeled Brown as armed and dangerous, urging the community to remain vigilant. Sheriff Leon Lott has made passionate pleas for assistance in locating Brown, emphasizing that he poses a serious threat to public safety.

In addition to Brown, there’s another suspect—a 16-year-old—who was charged with obstruction of justice and misprision. The incident unfolded in the early hours after deputies spotted the stolen vehicle on Parklane Road around 2:30 a.m. What began as an attempt to stop a vehicle quickly escalated into chaos, with the stolen car crashing and Bumi sustaining fatal injuries while pursuing the suspects.

A Disturbing Trend

Adding to the community’s concerns is the fact that this incident marks a disturbing trend, as the Richland County Sheriff’s Department has faced the loss of three K9 officers in just 2024—all of which raise serious questions about the safety of K9 officers and their handlers. Two of those fatalities have been linked to gun violence, highlighting an urgent call for action and support for law enforcement personnel.

Separate Incidents and Arrests

In a related tone of urgency, police in Irmo have arrested Joshua D. Riley and Daion A. Bowers in a separate incident involving a reckless vehicle collision. Riley faces several charges, including Reckless Driving and Failure to Stop for Blue Lights. Meanwhile, Bowers is in hot water for Resisting Arrest and has an outstanding warrant from another department.

As Richland County mourns the loss of K9 Bumi, the echoing call for justice and community safety rings louder than ever. The community looks to come together in solidarity and support for law enforcement, reflecting the values of loyalty and bravery embodied by K9 Bumi.