Columbia, South Carolina, October 25, 2025
News Summary
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department has unveiled a memorial dedicated to K9s killed in the line of duty. This tribute recognizes the service and sacrifice of canine officers, with names of fallen K9s inscribed and a goal of $80,000 for further initiatives. The memorial serves not only to honor individual K9s but also to educate the community on their vital roles within law enforcement. The project carries deep significance for those affected by the recent losses of K9s Wick, Kodak, and Bumi.
Columbia, South Carolina – A memorial honoring K9s killed in the line of duty has been unveiled by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, in recognition of their service and sacrifices. This project, initiated by former South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) agents and employees, aims to pay tribute to the brave canine officers who have lost their lives while serving their communities.
Since the inception of the K9 program in the 1940s, seven K9 officers have tragically been killed while serving with SLED. The newly established memorial is being organized by the Society of Retired Agents and the Foundation of Former Employees of SLED, with plans to position it outside the SLED headquarters in Columbia. Designed to honor not only those K9s who have died in the line of duty but also to feature a headstone for all K9s who served, this memorial will include the names of K9s lost, distinguished by a star next to their names.
The unveiling ceremony took place on National Peace Officers Memorial Day, coinciding with National Police Week, an event that emphasizes the contribution of law enforcement professionals, including K9s. Sheriff Leon Lott stressed the significance of recognizing the impact of K9s in law enforcement and their unwavering dedication to public safety.
K9s Wick, Kodak, and Bumi were specifically honored during the ceremony, representing some of the recent sacrifices made by these loyal companions. Wick lost his life after being struck by a vehicle during a police chase in 2024. Kodak succumbed to injuries sustained while tracking a suspect in October 2024, and Bumi was shot while answering a call, leading to the arrest of three teenagers in connection with his death. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department has reported that it has lost more K9s in the line of duty than any other agency in the U.S. for the year 2024.
Amidst ongoing challenges, including a government shutdown now in its 22nd day, fundraising efforts for the K9 memorial have become more complicated. The group has set a fundraising goal of $80,000, which is to be funded entirely through private donations. Contributions can be made online or by mailing checks to Jim Martin, the treasurer in Irmo, SC, and all donations are tax-deductible. Donations are also facilitated through GoFundMe.
The K9 program has a proud history, dating back to 1947 when the first bloodhound was purchased by Sgt. J.P. Strom. The inspiration for the K9 memorial stems from the deep sorrow experienced following the loss of K9s Coba and Rico, underscoring the profound impact these animals have had on the safety and well-being of communities in South Carolina. The project is intended to reflect both the enduring legacy and the future of the K9 officer program across the state.
Key Details of the K9 Memorial Fundraising
- Fundraising Goal: $80,000
- Current Status: Complicated by government shutdown
- Donation Methods: Online, checks to Jim Martin, Treasurer, Irmo, SC
- All contributions: Tax-deductible
Recent K9 Sacrifices
- K9 Wick: Struck by a vehicle during a police chase in 2024
- K9 Kodak: Died tracking a suspect in October 2024
- K9 Bumi: Shot while responding to a call
Importance of the Memorial
The K9 memorial serves as a permanent tribute to the dedicated service rendered by these canine officers and aims to educate the public about their crucial roles in law enforcement. As more awareness is raised through this initiative, it is hoped the community will join in honoring these loyal companions who serve to protect and save lives.
FAQ Section:
What is the purpose of the K9 memorial?
The memorial honors K9s killed in the line of duty and recognizes their contributions to public safety.
How many K9s have been killed while serving with SLED?
Since the 1940s, seven K9 officers have been killed while serving with SLED.
How can donations be made for the memorial?
Donations can be made online or via checks mailed to Jim Martin, Treasurer, at Irmo, SC. Contributions are tax-deductible.
Why is the K9 memorial important?
The memorial serves to honor K9s lost in the line of duty, educate the public about their roles, and reflect the enduring legacy of the K9 officer program in South Carolina.
Key Features of K9 Memorial
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fundraising Goal | $80,000 |
| How to Donate | Online and checks via Jim Martin, Treasurer |
| K9s Honored | Wick, Kodak, Bumi |
| History | First bloodhound purchased in 1947 |
| Significance | Honors K9s lost in duty and their contributions |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Columbia, S.C. Hosts Sweet Tea 101 and Korean Festival
Heartfelt Memorial Service for K9 Bumi in Columbia
Newberry Community Unites for Hurricane Recovery Efforts
Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Richland County K9s Honored for Service
- Wikipedia: K9 Unit
- Your Source One: Community Honors Fallen K9 Ruben
- Google Search: K9 Memorial
- WACH: Fallen RCSD K9s Honored
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Dog
- Police1: Richland County Sheriff’s Department Honored
- Google News: K9 Officers Memorial
- WIS TV: Richland County Deputies Announce Memorial for K9 Bumi
- WorldCat: K9 Officers in Law Enforcement
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.
