Rabid Raccoon Found in Lexington County; Cayce Police Chief Joins University of South Carolina; Free Emergency Preparedness Classes Offered; Local Student Becomes National SkillsUSA Officer; Drug Trafficking Charges for West Columbia Resident; New Pastor Appointed at Lexington Church

Rabid Raccoon Discovered in Lexington County

In a recent turn of events, a raccoon found in West Columbia, S.C. near Stonewood Drive and Wilton Road tested positive for rabies. This grave discovery was made on the 3rd of July, as confirmed by the South Carolina Department of Public Health. The concerning issue led to the identification and notification of seven individuals who were exposed to the rabid raccoon. They were immediately requested to seek medical care from their respective primary providers.

According to Rabies Program Director Terri McCollister, “Rabies is usually transmitted through a bite or scratch that allows saliva from an infected animal to be introduced into the body of a person or another animal. However, infected saliva or neural tissue contact with open wounds or areas such as the eyes, nose, or mouth could also potentially transmit rabies.”

Precautionary Measures

Given the current health concern, it is imperative to maintain a safe distance from wild animals. If an animal appears to be in distress, it is recommended to reach out to a trained professional such as an animal or wildlife control officer. For those suspecting exposure to rabies, they should contact the Department of Public Health’s Columbia office (contact- 803-896-0620) operating from Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For emergency scenarios beyond working hours, the department can also be reached at 888-847-0902.

Cayce Police Chief Steps into a New Role

Meanwhile, the Cayce Police Department is witnessing a leadership transition. Chris Cowan, the Cayce Police Chief since September 2021, will be joining the University of South Carolina. Cowan has devoted over 30 years of his life to law enforcement, and his contributions to the local community have been significant. However, the interim chief will be announced at a later date by the Cayce city manager, Tracy Hegler.

Free Stop the Bleed and C.R.A.S.E Classes Offered

The Lexington Police Department is offering free classes on implementing tourniquets, wound packing, and active shooter survival methods for the third consecutive year. These courses are targeted towards individuals above 16 years of age and are held at the Lexington Police Department’s training room. The STOP THE BLEED and C.R.A.S.E. classes can potentially equip individuals to handle emergency situations better and are free of cost, with limited seats availability.

Lexington County Student Makes History

In other news, Avery Smith, a senior at the Spring Hill High School and Law Enforcement Services Program, has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming the first-ever national SkillsUSA officer hailing from South Carolina. Smith will shoulder the responsibility of the Region 2 Vice President for the 2024-2025 school year, leading and facilitating state and national conferences and events.

West Columbia Resident Faces Drug Trafficking Charges

Recent developments in Lexington County saw the arrest of Shawn Thompson on multiple drug trafficking and distribution charges. Thompson, currently a detainee at the Lexington County Detention Center, stands accused of manufacturing and distributing cocaine base, along with trafficking cocaine base and fentanyl.

New Pastor to Serve at Lexington’s Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church

Coming August 4th, Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church will be welcoming a new pastor, Joel Branther. Previously serving at the Church of the Valley in Apple Valley, Calif., Pastor Branther brings with him nine years of pastoral experience. He is set to take up the dual role of Senior Pastor and Chief of Staff of the church.