Man Arrested after Incident Leading to K9’s Death

Man Arrested after Incident Leading to K9’s Death

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) has reported the arrest of a suspect involved in a foot chase that led to the death of a devoted K9 unit, Wick. Thomas Taylor, 44, was brought into custody early Monday morning following his arrest at an apartment complex on Ripplemeyer Avenue. His arrest was conducted by the sheriff department’s Fugitive Task Force.

Incident Details

According to the officials, K9 Wick was fatally injured while pursuing Taylor who is alleged to have stolen a work van. The incident happened when the keys were left inside the vehicle by employees. RCSD reports state that Taylor abandoned the vehicle on I-77 and attempted to escape by running into the nearby area. K9 Wick and his handler started a chase where an unfortunate turn of events resulted in the K9’s leash breaking, leading to Wick being struck by a passing car.

Charges and Memorial

Laying charges against Taylor, the police department listed burglary in the first degree, grand larceny and failure to stop for blue lights. Following his arrest, Taylor was remanded at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

The RCSD has planned a memorial service in honor of K9 Wick. The service, set to occur at 10 a.m. Tuesday morning, will be held at the Riverland Hills Baptist Church in Irmo.