‘Man of integrity;’ Deputy Damien Bost honored as procession returns Columbus County

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Family members, fellow law enforcement officers and community members gathered Friday to honor Deputy Damien Bost as he was escorted home to Columbus County in a solemn procession.

Bost, 33, was remembered by colleagues as a kind, dedicated deputy and school resource officer whose impact on the community will not be forgotten.

Officer Alfonza Howard with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said he first met Bost while working at the detention center.

“He was a man of integrity, a young man of integrity,” he said.

Howard said Bost frequently worked after-hours shifts at the detention center and earned the respect of everyone around him.

“He would come work in the detention center during the afterhours and he was a great worker, and a man with plenty of respect not just for other people, but for himself,” he said.

On Friday, law enforcement agencies from across the region participated in a motor procession as Bost’s body was escorted from Raleigh back to Columbus County. Community members lined portions of the route, displaying American flags, including near Meares Funeral Home in Fair Bluff and on several highway overpasses.

Bost was killed Thursday morning while working a traffic detail on U.S. 74-76. Authorities said he was driving slowly in the median to protect road construction crews when his patrol vehicle was struck from behind by an 18-wheeler.

Howard said deputies rushed to the hospital after learning of the crash.

“They showered the hospital because that’s how much love we have for this young man,” Howard said.

Authorities arrested 33-year-old Daniel McPherson in connection with the crash. He is charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, reckless driving to endanger and failure to reduce speed.

Howard said Bost was devoted to both his family and the students he served as the school resource officer at South Columbus High School. He was also active in the DARE program, often dressing in a lion costume to connect with children.

“He’s gone, he’s gone and we’re going to miss him,” Howard said.

Funeral arrangements for Bost have not yet been announced.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a memorial fund to support Bost’s family.