South Carolina is mourning the tragic death of Columbia Police Officer Christopher “Chris” DeLong Jr., the 29-year-old officer who was killed in the line of duty during a shooting on Saturday, August 29, 2026. He was on duty with fellow officer David Dymock when a convicted felon opened fire at 951 Hazelwood Road near a local park in South Carolina, leaving both injured. While Officer Dymock survived with gunshot injuries, DeLong’s injuries were fatal.
Behind the badge, DeLong was more than a police officer. He was a husband, father, son, and member of a family with deep ties to law enforcement. He is survived by his wife, Hannah, and their two young children.
What led to the fatal shootout in South Carolina?
The tragedy unfolded on Saturday morning after Columbia police were called to a reported domestic disturbance in the 100 block of Holstein Lane. According to Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook, a woman told officers that a man she had a restraining order against had come to her home and caused damage before leaving the area.
By
By
