Columbia Memorial Service Pays Tribute to Fallen K-9 Officer Coba

Columbia Memorial Service Pays Tribute to Fallen K-9 Officer Coba

In a fitting tribute to a fallen hero, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) held a memorial service on Wednesday morning for K-9 officer Coba, who was shot and killed in the line of duty last week.

Coba, a four-year-old Belgian Malinois mix, was part of the response team deployed to a home on Gravel Road, where 37-year-old James Peterson was the subject of a felony warrant. A confrontation inside the house tragically ended with Coba being shot by Peterson. SLED agents returned fire, neutralising the threat posed by Peterson.

The wounded K-9 was taken to an emergency vet, succumbing to his injuries later that day.

Serving with Distinction

Coba started his law enforcement career in 2021, and had been serving alongside SLED Special Agent Richard “Cole” Powell. Beyond being partners in duty, Coba was also part of Powell’s family at home, a testament to the strong bond between a K-9 and its handler.

Remembrance at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy

The memorial service took place at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, located at 5400 Broad River Road. Among the attendees was South Carolina’s Governor, Henry McMaster, honouring Coba’s gallantry and service.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division continues to mourn the loss of a loyal partner. K-9 Officer Coba’s bravery and dedication will always hold a revered place within their ranks, his memory serving as an embodiment of the unbreakable bond between law enforcement officers and their K-9 counterparts.