Who They Were: Victims Identified in York County’s Deadly Police Shooting
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| From left to right: Det. Mark Baker, Sgt. Isaiah Emenheiser and Det. Sgt. Cody Becker.District Attorney's Office |
A routine domestic disturbance call turned into one of the deadliest attacks on law enforcement in South Carolina in recent memory. Four officers were shot—one fatally—during a harrowing overnight manhunt in York County. As the community struggles to process the shock and grief, we take a closer look at the victims—officers who put their lives on the line and paid the price for their service.
What Triggered the Shooting?
On the night of January 15, 2018, deputies from the York County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence call involving Christian Thomas McCall at a residence on Farrier Lane, near South Parham Road, just outside the city of York, South Carolina. According to reports, McCall had assaulted his wife and fled the scene on foot into a heavily wooded area behind the home.
Law enforcement launched a large-scale manhunt that extended into the early hours of January 16. At approximately 1:00 a.m., as deputies and K-9 units tracked McCall through the dense terrain, he ambushed them—opening fire under the cover of darkness.
Three deputies were struck in the initial gunfire. Later, during an attempt to capture McCall at a nearby location, a fourth officer—Detective Michael R. Doty—was critically wounded in a second exchange of gunfire. The incident unfolded over several tense hours and ended only after McCall was shot and taken into custody by SWAT officers.
The Officers: One Killed, Three Wounded
Detective Michael R. Doty (Killed)
Detective Michael R. Doty, age 37, succumbed to his injuries after being shot in the head during the standoff. A 12-year veteran of the York County Sheriff’s Office, Doty was well-known for his work in narcotics enforcement and community outreach programs, particularly in schools addressing opioid abuse and drug prevention.
“Mike was the kind of guy who showed up early, stayed late, and always volunteered first,” said Sheriff Kevin Tolson. “He had a servant’s heart.”
Doty was airlifted to Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, where he passed away later that day. His death marks the first York County deputy killed in the line of duty since 1992.
Sergeant Randy Clinton (Wounded)
A K-9 handler with over 30 years in the Sheriff’s Office, Sergeant Clinton was struck in the leg during the initial exchange of gunfire. His loyal K-9 partner, “Buddy,” was not injured. Clinton was able to radio for help and received emergency treatment on the scene before being transported to the hospital.
Clinton is currently recovering at home following surgery. His family says he’s in “good spirits and determined to return to duty.”
Deputy Brent McDaniel (Wounded)
Deputy McDaniel, a five-year veteran, sustained injuries to his shoulder and upper arm while assisting with the perimeter. According to hospital staff, McDaniel remained conscious and communicative after being hit.
He is recovering after undergoing reconstructive surgery and is expected to regain full use of his arm. Colleagues described him as “tenacious” and “always ready for backup.”
Sergeant Kyle Cummings (Wounded)
Sergeant Cummings was shot in the chest area but was wearing a bulletproof vest, which likely saved his life. Still, the impact caused significant internal trauma, and he was rushed into emergency surgery. He remains in critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit.
“If he wasn’t wearing that vest, we’d be having a second funeral,” said a fellow officer.
Community Mourns, Honors Fallen Hero
In the wake of the shooting, York County has rallied in support of its law enforcement family. Hundreds gathered for a candlelight vigil in downtown Rock Hill. Flowers, handwritten messages, and blue ribbons have been placed outside the sheriff’s office, and a memorial fund has been set up for the families of the victims.
Funeral Arrangements for Detective Doty
Detective Doty will be laid to rest on [Insert Funeral Date] at [Insert Church or Location], with full law enforcement honors. Thousands are expected to attend, including officers from across the Southeast.
South Carolina Governor [Insert Name] ordered all state flags lowered to half-staff in Doty’s memory.
“Detective Doty gave his life protecting others,” the governor said. “South Carolina mourns with York County tonight.”
A Grim Reminder of Risk
This incident marks one of the most serious attacks on police in South Carolina in recent years. It comes amid growing national conversations around policing, mental health, and domestic violence.
Sheriff Tolson emphasized the bravery of all the officers involved:
“They knew the risks. They went in anyway. That’s what heroes do.”
Key Facts at a Glance: York County Shooting Victims
| Name | Status | Injuries | Years of Service | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detective Michael Doty | Deceased | Gunshot to head | 12+ years | Narcotics, Outreach |
| Sergeant Randy Clinton | Wounded | Gunshot to leg | 30+ years | K-9 Unit |
| Deputy Brent McDaniel | Wounded | Shoulder, upper arm | 5 years | Perimeter Team |
| Sergeant Kyle Cummings | Wounded | Torso trauma (vest saved) | 10+ years | Tactical Team |
Who Is the Suspect in the York County Shooting?
The suspect behind the deadly ambush has been identified as Christian Thomas McCall, a 47-year-old resident of York, South Carolina. According to law enforcement, McCall had a history of domestic violence, weapons violations, and mental health concerns—a volatile combination that had previously drawn police attention.
What Led to the Manhunt?
The confrontation began when deputies responded to a 911 call made by McCall’s wife, who reported that he was behaving violently and had physically assaulted her inside their home. When officers arrived, McCall fled into a nearby wooded area, carrying multiple firearms.
For hours, law enforcement combed the woods using helicopters, K-9 units, and night-vision gear. But what they didn’t anticipate was an ambush.
“This wasn’t just a shootout—this was an intentional, calculated attack on law enforcement,” said York County Sheriff Kevin Tolson.
McCall reportedly used the darkness and terrain to his advantage, firing on officers from cover. During the second wave of the manhunt—around 3:30 a.m.—he opened fire again, striking additional officers, including Detective Michael Doty.
Conclusion
The York County shooting has left deep scars, but it has also revealed the strength, courage, and unity of a community that refuses to be shaken. While the pain of losing Detective Doty is raw, his legacy of service will endure.
The wounded officers face long roads to recovery, both physically and emotionally. But they are not alone. From local residents to national officials, support continues to pour in—proof that even in tragedy, solidarity and honor remain unbreakable.
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