DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. – A tragic overnight shooting has claimed the life of Deputy Devin Mason, 27, of the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, and left another deputy hospitalized following what officials describe as an ambush during the execution of an arrest operation.

The incident occurred late Sunday night, June 30, at a residence on Old Timers Court near Lamar, where deputies were attempting to locate a suspect wanted on criminal conspiracy and forgery charges.

Upon entering the home, deputies were met with gunfire. Deputy Mason was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries. A second deputy, whose identity has not yet been released, was also wounded and is currently in stable condition at an area hospital.

The suspect, Cameron Ray Dennett, was killed during the exchange of gunfire.

Another individual at the scene, Kristen Porter, 28, was arrested and booked into the Florence County Detention Center on outstanding warrants for criminal conspiracy and forgery.

In a statement issued Monday morning, Sheriff Michael August confirmed Deputy Mason’s death, calling it a devastating loss for the department and community:

“Today, we mourn the loss of one of our own, Deputy Devin Mason. This is an incredibly sad day for Devin’s family, the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, and the entire community we serve. Deputy Mason served with honor, integrity, and unwavering dedication. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will not be forgotten.”

Deputy Mason joined the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office in 2024 and graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy on March 28, 2025. He had just completed his field training last week.

Sheriff August described Mason as a model deputy whose commitment and professionalism earned the respect of his peers.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster expressed his condolences and confirmed that flags at the Statehouse in Columbia will be flown at half-staff on the day of Mason’s funeral, which has yet to be scheduled.

“Early this morning, Darlington County Sheriff’s Deputy Devin Mason was tragically killed in the line of duty. Please join Peggy and me in praying for his friends, family, and the entire Darlington County community,” McMaster said.

According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, Deputy Mason is the second deputy from the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office to die in the line of duty.

The first was Sheriff Alton Grinnell, who died in a car crash in 1945.

Deputy Mason was a 2017 graduate of West Columbus High School in Columbus County, North Carolina, where he played football and was remembered as a role model.

The WCHS Viking EndZone Club shared news of his passing, noting that he and his fiancée recently welcomed their first child in April.

An outpouring of grief and solidarity followed news of Mason’s death. Law enforcement agencies across the state—including the Hartsville, Marlboro, Marion, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, and Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Offices—issued statements expressing sympathy and support.

“Deputy Mason’s service and dedication to protecting our community will never be forgotten,” the Hartsville Police Department said. “His commitment to duty and the safety of others reflects the very best of law enforcement.”

Fire and rescue departments also offered condolences.

The Lake City Fire Department and North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue joined others in saluting Mason’s sacrifice and offering prayers for the injured deputy.

Additional tributes came from the Beaufort, Mount Pleasant, Simpsonville, Sumter, Greenville, and Walterboro police departments, as well as numerous other agencies across the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the ambush. Further details regarding the shooting and any potential accomplices have not yet been released.

The Darlington County Sheriff’s Office has requested the community’s continued prayers and support during this profoundly difficult time.

“Rest easy, Deputy Mason. We have the watch from here.”