🌱 Columbia Police Officer Targeted In Murder + Rabid Animals In Town

Good morning, neighbors! Dan Casarella here with today's Columbia Daily.

First, today's weather:

Sunny and cooler but pleasant. High: 74 Low: 49.

Here are the top 3 stories in Columbia today:

1. A Cayce Police Officer who was shot and killed Sunday was the victim of a targeted attack, according to police. The police officer died instantly after being shot by a man from the second-floor window of a home in Cayce. Officers had been called to the home after reports of the man pointing a rifle at his wife and daughter. The man barricaded himself in the house and moved his wife and child into a closet until negotiators were able to secure their release. The man died by suicide, according to Cayce police. (Charleston Post Courier)
2. Columbia Firefighters could be found in the Saluda River practicing their rescue techniques earlier this month. The annual classes certified firefighters in preparation for water rescues during the summer. According to the fire chief, warmer weather tends to bring more water rescue calls to the department. Learn more about water flow conditions and how to be sure it is safe at the link. (Press Release Desk)
3. Animals in Columbia have tested positive for rabies, according to DHEC officials. A wild bat and raccoon have tested positive and exposed several area pets to the disease. According to the Rabies Program Team Leader, owners should exercise caution to check for exposure anytime a bat is found near children or pets. Learn more safety strategies at the link. (WIS 10)

Today in Columbia:

• Waitress at Koger Center For The Arts (7:30 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• South Carolina State Museum invites you to enjoy "Apollo April" while you still can. Children's admission is discounted and a planetarium experience is available until May 1. (Facebook)
• South Carolina Humanities celebrated National Audubon Day. Learn more about the author and bird artist here. (Facebook)
• Columbia Museum of Art invites educators to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. Next Tuesday, May 3, teachers can enjoy food, drinks, and art at the museum. (Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with another update!

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.