S.C. Sheriff's Dive Team Member Dies During Underwater Training

Lexington County Sheriff’s Department dive team member Jillian Olson died during an underwater training session on Lake Murray, leaving colleagues mourning a deputy remembered for her quiet dedication and service.

By Sydney Lewis

Source The State

July 31, 2026

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Lexington County Sheriff’s Department dive team member Jillian Olson died Thursday during an underwater training session on Lake Murray.
Olson, who was named Outstanding Judicial Services Deputy of the Year in 2023, joined the agency in 2021 and became a member of the dive team in 2024.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is leading the investigation, while the state police agency and county coroner continue investigating the cause of death.

Lexington County Sheriff's Deputy Jillian Olson — State investigators are working to determine what happened during a Lake Murray training operation that claimed the life of Lexington County Sheriff’s Department dive team member Jillian Olson.

A member of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s dive team died Thursday during an underwater training session on Lake Murray, according to a Friday morning new release.

Jillian Olson, a 29-year-old Lexington resident, began her career at the department in 2021, and had been a member of the dive team since 2024. She received several awards during her career, including Outstanding Judicial Services Deputy of the Year in 2023.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is leading the investigation into Olson’s death, with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The Lexington County Coroner’s Office is currently investigating Olson’s cause of death, which has not yet been released.

“Jillian’s dedication to her community and department is well-documented with awards and recognitions,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay 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.”

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