The procession escorting Columbus County Sheriff’s Deputy Damien Draper Bost is expected to enter Columbus County around 12:30 p.m. today, according to the sheriff’s office.
The procession will leave Raleigh at 11 a.m., and depending on traffic and conditions should cross the county line at Evergreen between 12-30 and 1 p.m. The route will follow U.S. 74 to N.C. 242 at Cerro Gordo, take U.S. 76 past West Columbus and continue to Meares Funeral Home in Fair Bluff.
Bost, 29, died Thursday after his cruiser was struck from behind by a speeding tractor-trailer near the Hallsboro interchange on U.S. 74. Bost and another deputy were escorting a paint crew with their lights operating when David Samuel McPherson, 33, allegedly drove into and over the deputy’s vehicle as Bost was parked in the median. McPherson is being held under $100,000 secured bond, charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, reckless driving and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.
Bost, whose callsign was R6, was a school resource officer. He was operating his county vehicle on a highway escort assignment for a line-painting crew when the crash occurred. SROs commonly take on other assignments during school breaks.
Staff at Old Dock Elementary and South Columbus High remembered Bost for his love of students and desire to help, according to a Facebook post from ODES.
“He was so much more than an officer—he was a trusted coworker, a mentor, and a positive role model to our students,” the post read. “His smile, kind heart, and genuine ability to connect with everyone made our school a better place each day. He took the time to build meaningful relationships, encouraged our children, and made them feel safe, seen, and valued.
“The impact he had on our school family will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to our students and staff.”
South Columbus High said on its official page that Bost had a “passion” for working with students.
“Today, our Stallion family is mourning the loss of a heroic life,” the post read. “Deputy Bost’s passion for his work shone brightly as he loved serving South Columbus High School and its students and staff with his generous spirit. His selfless heart will forever be remembered.”
Bost joined the CCSO in 2018. He was active in the DARE program and frequently attended sports events. He also wore the iconic DARE lion costume at parades and other events, Sheriff Bill Rogers said.
“Whenever you’d see the lion dancing around at a DARE program, that was him. He was always our lion. He was always there for the kids,” Rogers said.
Condolences from law enforcement and government agencies poured in across the state Thursday.
“The men and women of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation send our deepest sympathies to Deputy Bost’s family, friends, and the entire Columbus County Sheriff’s Office during this unimaginable time,” the SBI said in a press release. “We honor Deputy Bost’s service and sacrifice to the people of North Carolina, and we stand alongside our partners in Columbus County as they grieve the loss of one of their own.
County leaders also expressed shock at the loss.
“The Columbus County Board of Commissioners and staff are devastated with the loss of Deputy Damien Bost in the line-of-duty,” a press release said. “Our condolences, thoughts, and prayers are and remain with Deputy Bost’s family, Sheriff’s Office family, loved ones, and friends. We ask for continued support of our community during this difficult time.”
The Sandhills Chapter of the N.C. Police Benevolent Association and the national PBA are asking for financial assistance for the family. The fund has been approved by Bost’s wife, Jayden, and endorsed by the sheriff’s office. To donate, go to
Police Benevolent Foundation Inc – Deputy Damien Bost Memorial Fund , or contact the sheriff’s office at 910.642.6551.
Alisha Reeves, Bost’s mother-in-law, shared information about th memorial fund on social media. The entire family is in pain, she wrote.
“I truly have no words right now, we’re all in a state of shock, my daughter is an unimaginable amount of pain, her girls are just want their daddy to come home.
“We’ve lost an amazing man, our community has lost one of the best. Tragedy is taking its toll.
“We’ve had an overwhelming amount of calls and messages asking what can be done in support of Jayden and the girls.
Bost worked overtime and had a landscaping company so his wife Jayden could stay home with their two small children.
“He worked tirelessly to make ends meet and to support his girls.
“We appreciate all the calls, texts and the outpouring of love that has been extended. We have not been in a position to answer all calls and messages. Please know they’re appreciated and we love you all.”
Funeral arrangements will be announced by Meares and Jones of Fair Bluff.
