The community of McColl, South Carolina, is grappling with the shocking news of the untimely death of its mayor, George Garner II. The tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when Garner was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. At just 49 years old, his passing has left the small town of approximately 2,000 residents reeling, especially coming just days after his town's police department resigned en masse.
According to the Darlington County Coroner, Todd Hardee, the accident occurred when Garner's vehicle collided with another truck in Mechanicsville. At the time of the crash, he was reportedly being pursued by law enforcement but details surrounding the pursuit remain murky. Hardee emphasized, "the pursuit was not related to any laws being broken" and was aimed at protecting Garner's well-being. The exact circumstances leading to the crash are currently part of an active investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which has yet to release specific findings.
Just days before this tragic incident, the McColl Police Department, consisting of Chief Bob Hale and four officers, resigned, citing significant issues within the department. Chief Hale described the environment leading to their exit as one created by harassment and hostility perpetuated by a town councilman. He explained on social media, "My personal decision to step away... can be attributed to repeated acts of harassment, personal attacks on my character." Hale's resignation, alongside his fellow officers, left the town without any police presence, prompting the Marlboro County Sheriff's Department to step up and respond to any calls from residents.
This unrest within the police department underscored existing concerns among town residents. Last week, Garner himself acknowledged the troubling situation, stating to WMBF News, "the community is in a difficult situation," highlighting the challenges posed by the sudden lack of police services. The former police force not only described their resignations as necessary for personal integrity but also pointed to financial strains on the department which accompanied cuts to its operational budget.
Despite the turmoil, community members have expressed their condolences and reflections on Garner's long-term service and dedication to McColl. Marlboro County's Emergency Management expressed their sadness over the mayor's passing, describing him as "truly remarkable" and stating he treated everyone with warmth and respect. The heartfelt statements reflect the impact he had on many lives during his tenure.
Questions are now swirling around the circumstances of the pursuit and crash involving Mayor Garner. Previous reports by law enforcement agencies hinted at an active investigation concerning Garner, though specifics remain undisclosed. It is yet unclear what the nature of the inquiry might have been and whether it played any role contributing to the events leading to the accident.
During such tumultuous times for the town of McColl, individuals both inside and outside the community are mourning the loss of their mayor. Garner had been known for his commitment to his role and willingness to engage with the residents he served. His unexpected passing brings to light not only the fragility of life but also the pressing concerns surrounding local governance and community support.
The Marlboro County E911 service expressed on behalf of the emergency responders their deepest condolences to Garner's family and friends. They noted, "Our hearts are heavy during this difficult time, and we are keeping everyone affected in our thoughts and prayers." This sentiment resonates as the community begins to reckon with both their grief and the uncertainty about the future of law enforcement support following the recent police department's resignation.
While investigations continue to clarify the precise circumstances surrounding the accident and the role of law enforcement, residents of McColl are left without key answers. Mayor Garner's passing serves as both a tragic chapter for the town and even more pressing challenges as they navigate governance and community safety, especially after the shocking resignation of the local police department. Now as the town awaits answers and wrestles with its loss, the story of Mayor George Garner II will undoubtedly linger within the hearts of those who knew him and depended on his service.