The town of McColl faces chaos after the unexpected death of Mayor George Garner II and the simultaneous resignation of its entire police force.
At a Glance
- Mayor George Garner II died in a car crash during a police escort.
- McColl is left without a local police force following mass resignations.
- Garner was allegedly fleeing under deputy protection, not for legal violations.
- Tensions stemmed from allegations of a hostile work environment.
Mayor’s Tragic End
Mayor George Garner II died on November 26 in a collision with a tractor-trailer on Highway 34 in Mechanicsville. The crash occurred while Garner, aged 49, was reportedly under the protection of a pursuing Marlboro County Deputy, not due to any legal infringements. Garner’s death adds to the complex challenges facing McColl, a town already embroiled in controversy due to the mass resignations of its police force.
As McColl’s mayor, recently re-elected, Garner had requested policing assistance amid rising tensions. Former Police Chief Bob Hale and four officers left their posts citing harassment from a councilman, identified as Harry Benjamin. Before Garner’s death, multiple police chiefs had resigned amid claims of a hostile work environment. These resignations underscore underlying issues that have now escalated into a civic crisis.
Ongoing Investigation
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating matters involving Mayor Garner, although specific details remain undisclosed. This investigation might shed light on whether there were broader issues at play in McColl’s governance. At the same time, the resignation of the entire police squad left McColl exposed, with Mayor pro tempore Brian Blue expressing commitment to protect the community. Garner’s funeral is set for December 3 at McColl Church of God.
“I know it’s a hard time right now for our town, but us as a council and me as your mayor pro tempore, we will continue fighting for you all.” – Mayor pro tempore Brian Blue
The town, in shock, is now under temporary protection from neighboring law enforcement and awaits resolutions of ongoing inquiries. Safety concerns have been voiced by residents, pressing the need for swift interventions to regain normalcy.
BREAKING: Mayor of McColl, S.C. George Garner died in a car crash earlier today, the Darlington County Coroner confirmed to @wmbfnews.https://t.co/Krbgvmbcy6
— Logan Schiciano (@LoganSchiciano) November 27, 2024
The Community in Crisis
The situation in McColl illustrates the dangers that arise when governmental disputes reach a boiling point. Previous police chiefs, like Xzavier Williams, cited toxic work conditions as reason for departure. Attempts to address local challenges, such as drug issues, stalled due to Garner’s conflicting priorities. Addressing these systemic issues might offer lessons on governance stability.
“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.” – Chief Bob Hale
With the town lacking a local force, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office temporarily fills the void. Mayor pro tempore Brian Blue’s commitment signals hope for future leadership. However, addressing McColl’s challenges requires looking beyond immediate solutions, and fostering transparent and accountable governance while prioritizing public safety.
Sources:
- Under siege mayor dies just days after small town’s entire police force quit over complaints about ‘troublesome councilman’
- South Carolina mayor dies in crash while being ‘pursued’ by deputy, just days after his police force quit
