Corporal Dennis James Lyden, Horry County Police Department, South Carolina

Corporal Dennis James Lyden

Horry County Police Department, South Carolina

End of Watch Monday, June 5, 2000

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Dennis James Lyden

Corporal Dennis Lyden was shot and killed during a traffic stop of a suspicious vehicle on State Highway 544 between Conway and Socastee at about 3:00 am.

As Corporal Lyden talked with the two occupants he was attacked and beaten with a flashlight. One of the suspects then shot him with his own weapon as he lay on the ground. Both subjects were arrested within two days of the incident and charged with murder.

In June 2001 the shooter was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death. The second subject was acquitted of the murder charges.

Corporal Lyden was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He had served with the Horry County Police Department for five years and had previously with the Marion City Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 44
Tour 9 years
Badge 353
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to death

suspicious vehicle, traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Cpl. Lyden,
On today, the 25th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the USMC. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

June 5, 2025