It was with a heavy heart that Columbia Police Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook shares the passing of a dedicated police officer.
Master Police Officer Tyrell Owens Riley
Earlier today, Master Police Officer (MPO) Tyrell Owens Riley suffered a medical emergency while participating in a CPD Specialized Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Assessment. During the physical fitness training portion of the assessment, MPO Owens Riley became ill. He was transported by EMS to Providence Hospital in downtown where he suffered cardiac arrest and could not be revived.
A Columbia native, MPO Owens Riley has served with CPD for the past 7 ½ years and was most recently assigned as a patrol officer in Metro Region. Prior to his law enforcement career with CPD, Owens Riley served with distinction with the United States Marine Corps.
Funeral arrangements remain in process.