The community of Greenwood, South Carolina is mourning the tragic loss of Officer DJ Keller, a dedicated member of the City of Greenwood Police Department, who died in the line of duty on May 11, 2026. His passing has sent shockwaves through law enforcement, local residents, and all who knew him, marking a deeply painful loss for the department and the community he served.
According to an official press release issued at 10:30 a.m. on May 12, 2026, Officer Keller was involved in a fatal incident while responding to an active situation involving a fleeing vehicle. At approximately 4:56 p.m., officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a blue Jeep connected to prior shooting-related incidents. When the driver failed to comply, a pursuit ensued.
During the attempt to evade law enforcement, the suspect vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with another Greenwood Police officer responding to assist. Officer DJ Keller, aged 31, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the Jeep, a 15-year-old male, along with two passengers aged 17 and 18, were transported to medical facilities for treatment. Their conditions have not been publicly released. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation.
Officer Keller joined the Greenwood Police Department in March 2023 and later served as a K9 officer alongside his partner, Vice, who was not injured in the incident. Prior to his service in Greenwood, he served in the United States Army from 2016 to 2020 and also served in the South Carolina National Guard.
He is survived by his wife, Alison, and their young daughter. Colleagues remember him as a committed officer, loyal teammate, and a man deeply devoted to protecting others in his community.
As Greenwood mourns this devastating loss, messages of condolence and support continue to pour in from across the region. Law enforcement agencies and community members alike are honoring his service, sacrifice, and dedication.
Authorities have requested privacy for the family as investigators continue their review. Memorial service details are expected to be announced in the coming days.
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