Suspect Killed After Deputy-Involved Shooting in Richland County
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A suspect is dead following a deputy-involved shooting in Richland County on Tuesday morning, according to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
Shots Fired at Construction Workers
Deputies were dispatched just before 10 a.m. to the 300 block of Ovanta Road after reports that a suspect had fired shots at construction workers working outside a home. Sheriff Leon Lott said the individual then retreated inside and spoke with deputies through a window.
Deputies Attempted to De-Escalate
Sheriff Lott explained that deputies were attempting to de-escalate the situation when the suspect raised a firearm and pointed it at officers. At that point, RCSD Corporal Shawn Sullivan fired a single shot, striking the suspect.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, was treated at the scene before being transported to a hospital, where they later died.
Ongoing Investigation
Sheriff Lott called the incident a “bad, tragic” situation. An investigation is underway, and findings will be turned over to the solicitor’s office to determine whether the shooting was justified.
Deputies Receiving Counseling
Authorities confirmed that Corporal Sullivan and two other deputies involved in the incident — Deputy Mason Boney and Deputy Chris Miller — are receiving counseling as part of standard protocol following officer-involved shootings.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department has not released further details, and the case remains under review.
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