Darlington Deputy Killed, Another Injured in Ambush While Serving Warrants

DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. – A deadly ambush unfolded early Tuesday morning in the Lamar area of Darlington County, leaving one deputy dead, another wounded, and a suspect fatally shot during a confrontation involving multiple arrest warrants.

Deadly Confrontation on Old Timers Court

According to Darlington County Sheriff Michael August, deputies were responding to Old Timers Court around 1:30 a.m. on July 1 to serve seven active warrants on 25-year-old Cameron Ray Dennett. Dennett was wanted for criminal conspiracy, forgery, and second-degree computer crimes linked to financial fraud.

But as deputies approached, an ambush occurred, resulting in the death of Deputy Devin Mason, 27. A second deputy was also shot but survived and remains in stable condition at a hospital.

Dennett, who was legally prohibited from owning a firearm, was shot and killed at the scene. The Florence County Sheriff’s Office had requested the warrant service from Darlington deputies since Dennett was residing in their jurisdiction.

Second Arrest Made at the Scene

In addition to Dennett’s death, authorities arrested 28-year-old Kristen Porter, who was also present at the scene. She had active warrants for conspiracy, forgery, and computer crimes. She is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center, according to a report from ABC News 4.

A Deputy Remembered

Deputy Mason, who joined the department in 2024 and graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy just this past March, had completed field training only one week prior to the incident. Sheriff August called Mason a deputy who “demonstrated unwavering dedication, integrity, and professionalism” during his brief time with the force.

Friends shared with reporters that Mason was also a father to a 2-month-old baby.

“We ask that you keep Deputy Mason’s family, fellow deputies, and friends in your thoughts and prayers,” Sheriff August stated. “Rest easy, Deputy Mason. We have the watch from here.”

Outpouring from Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies across the state issued condolences:

Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye expressed prayers and condolences on behalf of his agency, saying, “The Florence County Sheriff’s Office is praying for the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office and the family of the fallen deputy.”
Georgetown County Sheriff Carter Weaver and Marlboro County Sheriff Larry McNeil echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the sacrifice made by Deputy Mason and calling for unity during this difficult time.
The Florence County Emergency Management Division also released a heartfelt message honoring the fallen deputy and reaffirming support for law enforcement officers statewide.

Investigation Underway

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation into the shooting, which remains ongoing.

By Tuesday morning, the scene was still active, with patrol vehicles removed via tow truck and investigators continuing to process evidence. A coroner was present on site, and highway patrol officers monitored all traffic entering the area.

How are you reflecting on the risks law enforcement faces every day in communities like Darlington? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.