News Summary
Deputy Devin Mason, aged 27, was tragically killed in an ambush while attempting to apprehend a suspect in Lamar, South Carolina. While Mason lost his life, another deputy was injured but is in stable condition. The suspect, Cameron Ray Dennett, was also fatally shot during the confrontation. Both Mason and Dennett had significant criminal involvement, and the incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement. The community mourns the loss of a dedicated officer who had just begun his career in public service.
South Carolina Deputy Devin Mason Killed in Ambush During Arrest Attempt
Deputy Devin Mason, 27, was shot and killed in an ambush while attempting to apprehend a suspect at a residence near Lamar, South Carolina, early Tuesday morning around 1:30 a.m. The tragic incident occurred as Mason and a fellow deputy approached the home to execute an arrest warrant for a wanted individual.
During the arrest attempt, both deputies encountered gunfire from the suspect inside the house. While Mason succumbed to his injuries, the second deputy was hospitalized and is currently reported to be in stable condition. The suspect, identified as Cameron Ray Dennett, 25, was also fatally shot during the confrontation. Dennett had been wanted on multiple charges, including criminal conspiracy, forgery, and possession of a firearm prohibited due to prior offenses.
In conjunction with the incident, authorities also apprehended a 28-year-old woman named Kristen Porter, who was found at the scene. Porter was wanted on similar charges, involved in a fraudulent scheme that utilized bank routing and account numbers. The financial losses attributed to Dennett and Porter are estimated at a total of over $2,000.
Background on the Incident
Deputy Mason had recently completed his training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, graduating in March 2025. He had just finished his field training the week before this incident. Sheriff Michael August of the county praised Mason, honoring his dedication and professionalism during his brief tenure in the department. This event marks a somber point for law enforcement in South Carolina, as it is the first time in over three years that an officer has been shot and killed in the line of duty.
Details of the Suspect and Charges
Cameron Ray Dennett was wanted not only for the violent crime but also for engaging in fraudulent activities. The specifics of his charges include defrauding victims out of $373.48. Kristen Porter, the woman arrested alongside him, faced charges involving over $2,000 stolen from various individuals. Both individuals had significant criminal backgrounds that ultimately led to this tragic encounter.
Surviving Family
Deputy Mason is survived by a 2-month-old son, his fiancée, as well as his mother and stepfather. The community mourns the loss of a young officer who had just begun his career in law enforcement, and tributes have poured in highlighting his commitment to serving and protecting others.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The incident is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Meanwhile, Kristen Porter is scheduled for a bond hearing in Florence on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Her future and legal responsibilities will be determined as the investigation proceeds, ensuring that justice is served in this concerning case.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox News: South Carolina Deputy Shot in Ambush
- Wikipedia: Law Enforcement in the United States
- ABC News: South Carolina Deputy Killed
- Google Search: South Carolina Deputy Ambush
- WRDW: South Carolina Deputy Killed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- WYFF: Deputy Dies in Ambush
- Google Scholar: Law Enforcement Officer Injury
- The State: Deputy Shot in Ambush
- Google News: South Carolina Deputy Ambush
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The HERE Charleston Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Charleston community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Charleston : Our team includes lifelong Charleston residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Charleston's equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Charleston Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Charleston Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
