With heavy hearts, family members, friends, and members of the Columbus County community are mourning the tragic and sudden loss of Deputy Damien Draper Bost, 33, who was killed in a devastating crash involving a tractor-trailer on U.S. 74\/76 in Bolton, North Carolina.<\/p>\n
According to authorities, Deputy Bost was stationed in a marked patrol vehicle in the median with emergency lights activated on Thursday morning, June 25, as he assisted with traffic safety in a highway work zone near the Hallsboro Road exit. The area was under a repaving project when the crash occurred around 10:40 a.m.<\/p>\n
Officials said a tractor-trailer traveling through the work zone struck the rear of Deputy Bost\u2019s vehicle. Despite immediate emergency response, he tragically lost his life at the scene.<\/p>\n
The North Carolina Department of Transportation confirmed that subcontractor crews were actively working nearby at the time of the crash. Two workers suffered minor injuries. The State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.<\/p>\n
Deputy Bost had served with the Columbus County Sheriff\u2019s Office for eight years. Sheriff Bill Rogers remembered him as a joyful, hardworking, and deeply respected member of the department who was dedicated to his role and his community.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe was all the time joking, happy,\u201d Rogers said. \u201cA family man. A great kid to be around, he enjoyed life.\u201d<\/p>\n
His passing has left his family, fellow deputies, and the entire community in deep sorrow. He is survived by his wife and two children, who now face an unimaginable loss.<\/p>\n
As news of his death spreads, law enforcement agencies and community members continue to share tributes, honoring his service, sacrifice, and the impact he made during his years of duty.<\/p>\n
Deputy Bost will be remembered not only for how he served, but for the kindness, humor, and dedication he brought to those around him.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"