LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WIS) – A Lexington County sheriff’s deputy died during dive team training on Lake Murray late Thursday.
The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department said Master Deputy Jillian Olson died in an underwater training session on the lake. She was 29.
Jillian Olson(LCSD)
“Our hearts are broken by the loss of a valuable member of the Sheriff’s Department,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said in a statement. “Jillian exemplified commitment and service. She faithfully carried out her duties and selflessly worked to make those around her better.”
A native of Illinois, LCSD said Olson first began her career with the department in 2021. She was promoted to master deputy in the warrants division in 2025 and had been a member of the dive team since 2024.
LCSD also said Olson was a decorated deputy within the department, having recently been recognized as its judicial services deputy of the year. She was set to celebrate her fifth year of service with LCSD in August.
“Jillian’s dedication to her community and department is well-documented with awards and recognitions,” Koon said. “She’ll be most remembered for what she did with no fanfare. Her decision to join our dive team is just one example of her going above and beyond.”
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is leading the investigation into Olson’s death. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is assisting. LCSD added that the Lexington County Coroner’s Office is conducting its own investigation to determine Olson’s cause and manner of death.
“I am grateful to DNR, SLED and our county coroner for the sensitive and respectful way they’ve handled everything,” Koon said. “I would also like to express my thanks to the countless public safety agencies that responded without hesitation from across the whole state to help us in our time of need.”
No further details were immediately available.
This is a developing story. Stay with WIS for updates.
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