News Summary
Authorities shot and killed a dog near Harbison State Forest after it was involved in multiple attacks on livestock, including a prior incident that injured a local resident. A brown dog escaped the scene and remains on the run. Search efforts are underway to locate the remaining dog while the forest remains closed for public safety. Local residents express growing concern over dog attacks in the area, prompting investigations into the situation.
Columbia, South Carolina
A black dog, believed to have been involved in multiple attacks on livestock, was shot and killed overnight near Harbison State Forest, following an incident just before midnight on Monday. Authorities confirmed that this dog was involved in a prior attack on July 12, where a local resident was injured. In addition, a brown dog that was also at the scene managed to escape and is currently on the run, likely injured.
Incident Details
The latest incident occurred when a relative of a homeowner witnessed the two dogs attacking the homeowner’s goats. This intervention came after previous reports of similar attacks in the area, revealing a troubling pattern of behavior from these dogs. During the attack, three goats were reported killed, aggravating the ongoing concerns of local residents.
In the earlier dog attack on July 11, Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston Holliday suffered multiple bite wounds and required 17 stitches for his injuries. This alarming incident has intensified scrutiny on the dog population around Harbison State Forest.
Current Search Efforts
As investigations continue, the South Carolina Forestry Commission, alongside Richland County Animal Control and the City of Columbia Animal Services, has deployed search teams to locate the remaining brown dog. In addition, law enforcement has been actively searching the area throughout the past week.
Authorities reported previous dog sightings near Geology Road, off Broad River Road, suggesting that the dogs may have a larger territory. To assist in the ongoing search, multiple trail cameras have been set up around the forest, and box traps are being used to help capture the remaining dog.
Impact on Harbison State Forest
In light of these events, Harbison State Forest will remain closed for public safety until at least Friday while investigations are underway. Authorities are carefully monitoring the situation and will notify the public regarding any updates about the park’s reopening.
Background Context
This recent spate of dog attacks has raised significant concern among local residents and authorities. The homeowner affected by the attacks had reported two previous incidents involving the same dogs attacking their goats in recent weeks. The gravity of these incidents combined with the reported injuries to individuals has placed added urgency on locating any remaining dogs and addressing the situation effectively.
As wildlife officials assess the safety of reopening Harbison State Forest, public updates will be communicated in regard to the search for the brown dog and the investigation into these attacks. The public is urged to stay informed and to report any sightings of the escaped dog to assist in its capture.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Launched into Death of Irmo Man After Police Confrontation
Teen Survives Attack from Aggressive Pit Bulls in SC Forest
Harbison State Forest Closed After Dog Attacks
Durham Eagles Aim for Victory Against Bulldogs in Final Regular Season Match
Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Dog Attacks
- WISTV
- Google Search: Harbison State Forest dog attacks
- WACH
- Google Scholar: dog attacks Harbison State Forest
- Cola Daily
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dog Behavior
- WRDW
- Google News: dog attacks Harbison State Forest
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
