A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY OFFICER DON WILLIAM "DJ" KELLER OF THE GREENWOOD CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

 

Whereas, in all generations, it behooves an ordered, peaceful society to demonstrate appreciation to those men and women who make possible the safety and security of its citizens. The people of the great State of South Carolina are singularly blessed with police officers, military servicemen and women, firefighters, rescue personnel, and Highway Patrol officers who serve selflessly, often putting their lives in danger in the delivery of that service; and

 

Whereas, Officer Don William "DJ" Keller of the Greenwood City Police Department stands high among those men and women who have labored to ensure the safety and security of the Palmetto State and who, therefore, retain a place of honor in the hearts of its citizens; and

 

Whereas, on Monday, May 11, 2026, Officer Keller was killed while serving as a member of a team of officers assigned to apprehend a vehicle allegedly involved in multiple recent crimes and shootings in the area. His untimely death at age thirty-one in the line of duty has left an indelible mark on the community he served unwaveringly and on all who had the privilege of knowing him; and

 

Whereas, DJ's journey was shaped by dedication and service from an early age. Having earned his diploma from Ware Shoals High School, he furthered his commitment to law enforcement by graduating from the South Carolina Police Academy in 2023. That same year, he began his career with the Greenwood City Police Department, where he quickly distinguished himself through his commitment and skill. In 2025, DJ became a K9 officer, partnering with his loyal K9 companion, Vice, to form a team that was both respected and admired within the department and community. Moreover, he was a veteran of the United States Army, attaining the rank of E6 during his four years of active duty (2016-2020), and he remained an active member of the South Carolina National Guard. His military and law enforcement careers were a testament to his unwavering dedication to protecting and serving his country and community; and

 

Whereas, outside of his professional life, DJ was an avid outdoorsman who cherished time spent hunting, fishing, and shooting, activities that brought him peace and joy. These passions reflected his deep connection with nature and a quiet strength that defined his character; and

 

Whereas, DJ leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Alison "Ali" Charles Keller; their beloved daughter, Ella Bloom Keller; his parents, Don Anthron Keller and Jennifer Burkett; seven siblings; his grandmother, June Smith; his parents-in-law, Chad and Sandy Charles; his brothers-in-law, Garrett Charles and Kellar Charles; a host of other relatives and friends; and DJ's faithful pup, Ammo; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina Senate counts it a great privilege to remember Officer DJ Keller, one of the Palmetto State's finest, and the members with one voice offer their grateful thanks to Almighty God for the service and ultimate sacrifice of this valiant son of South Carolina. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, honor and remember the supreme sacrifice made by Officer Don William "DJ" Keller of the Greenwood City Police Department in the line of duty and express to his family the deepest sympathy and appreciation of a grateful State for his life, sacrifice, and service.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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