Mayor George Garner II of McColl, South Carolina, died in a tragic car crash just days after the town’s entire police force resigned, leaving the community in turmoil.
Mayor’s Fatal Crash Shocks Community
In a devastating turn of events, McColl, South Carolina, Mayor George Garner II he lost his life in a vehicle crash on Highway 34 in Mechanicsville. The 49-year-old mayor, who had recently been re-elected, was involved in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer while being pursued by a Marlboro County sheriff’s deputy. Coroner Todd Hardee clarified the nature of the pursuit, stating, “The pursuit was not related to any laws being broken. The pursuit was taking place to protect the well-being of Mr. Garner.”
Mayor of South Carolina city dies days after entire police force resigns https://t.co/8b8OYODiMK
— WYFF News 4 (@wyffnews4) November 27, 2024
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) has investigated the crash. Meanwhile, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has disclosed an active investigation involving the late mayor, though details remain undisclosed. The tragedy has left the small town of approximately 2,000 residents reeling, with neighboring officials expressing condolences to Garner’s family and the McColl community.
South Carolina mayor dies in car crash days after town’s entire police force resigns https://t.co/AlISS39J0O
— Independent US (@IndyUSA) November 29, 2024
Police Force Resignation Leaves Town Vulnerable
Adding to the town’s distress, Garner’s death came just five days after the entire McColl Police Department, including Chief Bob Hale, submitted their resignations. The mass exodus was attributed to alleged harassment and a hostile work environment created by a town councilman. Chief Hale explained the decision in his resignation statement:
“It is with a heavy heart that I do confirm my resignation as Chief of Police of the McColl Police Department along with all four of my fellow officers. My personal decision to step away from the McColl Police Department can be attributed to repeated acts of harassment, personal attacks on my character, and the overall creation of a hostile work environment perpetuated by a specific councilman.”
The resignation of the entire police force left McColl without local law enforcement, forcing the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office to assume patrolling duties temporarily. This sudden lack of a police presence has raised concerns about public safety and the town’s ability to respond to emergencies.
Community Faces Uncertain Future
In the wake of these unprecedented events, McColl navigates uncharted waters. Brian Blue has assumed mayoral duties as mayor pro tempore following Garner’s untimely death. The community now faces the daunting task of rebuilding its leadership and law enforcement infrastructure while grappling with the loss of its mayor.
“Despite our efforts to address these issues professionally and through appropriate channels, the harassment and hostility have persisted,” Chief Hale had stated, highlighting the deep-rooted issues that led to the police force’s resignation.
As the town mourns, a funeral service for Mayor Garner is scheduled for December 3 at McColl Church of God. Marlboro County Emergency Management/911 described Garner as a remarkable individual and extended heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. The community now looks to state and county officials for guidance and support during this challenging period of transition and recovery.
Sources:
https://www.wyff4.com/article/south-carolina-mayor-dies-head-on-crash/63033238