Columbia, S.C. – The Columbia Police Department confirmed on Sunday, August 30, that Officer David Dymock has been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home after being wounded in the August 29 shooting at Southeast Park.
Incident Overview
The tragedy began when Officer Christopher DeLong responded to a domestic disturbance on Holstein Lane around 9:27 a.m. EDT. A woman reported that a man she had a restraining order against was “destroying property” at her residence. The suspect, identified as 33‑year‑old Adam Dowdy of Prosperity, S.C., had already fled the scene when officers arrived.
Approximately an hour later, DeLong spotted a person matching Dowdy’s description near a vehicle at Southeast Park, located at 951 Hazelwood Road, and initiated a suspicious‑person call. Officer Dymock arrived as backup at about 10:41 a.m. EDT. Four minutes later, both officers were shot, and Dymock radioed that “officers were hit and a suspect was down.”
Casualties and Investigation
Dowdy died at the scene after the exchange of gunfire. Officer DeLong was transported to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Officer Dymock survived, was initially listed in stable condition, and was released from the hospital over the weekend.
Dowdy’s criminal history included convictions for disorderly conduct, DUI, contempt of court, public intoxication, possession of a controlled substance, and probation violations. At the time of the shooting, he was out on bond while facing an assault and battery charge in DeKalb County, Georgia, and had prior encounters with law enforcement in at least four states.
The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the investigation, having been called in at the request of the Columbia Police Department.
Community Response
The Columbia community has rallied around the families of both officers. The department encouraged residents to keep Officer Dymock and his family in prayer as he continues his recovery. CPD also highlighted the Serve & Connect Tragedy Response Program as a way for citizens to support the families of fallen and injured officers.
Officer DeLong, who joined CPD in 2024 after graduating from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in January 2025, leaves behind his wife and two young children. His wife described him as the “best dad to our babies” in earlier coverage.
Looking Ahead
While the investigation proceeds, the department remains grateful for the outpouring of prayers, messages, donations, and other acts of support from the community. The incident underscores the risks faced by law‑enforcement officers and the importance of community solidarity in times of tragedy.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
