South Carolina Deputy Jillian Olson Dies in Lake Murray Dive Training

Deputy Jillian Olson, 29, a master deputy with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, died during an underwater training exercise on Lake Murray, South Carolina. The incident occurred Thursday while the department’s dive team was conducting routine drills. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources’ Aquatics Investigation and Recovery team led the recovery effort, assisted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office is investigating the cause of death.

Olson joined the sheriff’s department in 2021, was promoted to master deputy in 2025, and had been a member of the dive team since 2024. She had received several departmental awards, including the Outstanding Judicial Services Deputy of the Year in 2023 and a forthcoming five‑year honorable service award. Sheriff Jay Koon praised her dedication, noting her decision to join the dive team as an example of going above and beyond. A memorial was held outside the department, where colleagues and community members left flowers and teddy bears in her honor.