Devin Mason Obituary, Death – A tragic overnight shooting in South Carolina has claimed the lives of a Darlington County sheriff’s deputy and a suspect following what authorities described as an ambush. The incident took place around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, when deputies from the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on Old Timers Court to apprehend a wanted individual. While inside the home, deputies were unexpectedly ambushed, resulting in a deadly exchange.
Deputy Devin Mason, 27, was fatally wounded during the encounter and later died from his injuries. A second deputy was also injured and transported to the hospital, where he remains in stable condition. The suspect involved in the ambush was shot and killed during the incident.
Authorities identified the suspect as 25-year-old Cameron Ray Dennett. Dennett was previously barred from possessing a firearm and had active warrants for several charges, including Criminal Conspiracy, Forgery, and violating the Computer Crime Act (Second Degree).
In addition to Dennett, a woman present at the scene, 28-year-old Kristen Porter, was arrested. She also had multiple outstanding warrants, including two counts of Forgery, Criminal Conspiracy, and Computer Crime Act violations. Porter was taken into custody and booked into the Florence County Detention Center.
Deputy Mason had only recently begun his law enforcement career. He joined the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office in 2024 and graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy on March 28. He had just completed his field training the week prior to the fatal incident.
Sheriff Michael August expressed deep sorrow over Mason’s death, describing him as a dedicated and honorable public servant. “Deputy Mason served the people of Darlington County with heart and honor,” said August. “Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will not be forgotten.”
The sheriff also asked for the community’s support and prayers for Deputy Mason’s family, fellow deputies, and friends as they cope with the loss.
In line with standard procedure, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been asked to take over the investigation into the deadly shooting. Their role will include determining exactly how the ambush occurred and evaluating the use of force in the incident.
This tragic event has left a profound impact on the local law enforcement community and raised awareness about the risks deputies face when attempting to serve warrants, especially on individuals with known violent or criminal backgrounds.
More details about the case, including the outcome of the investigation and any future legal proceedings related to Porter, are expected as authorities continue their work. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young deputy whose promising career was cut short in the line of duty.