The tragic death of George Garner II, mayor of McColl, South Carolina, in a head-on collision during a police pursuit, has sparked concerns about its timing and connection to recent turmoil in the town. Garner died Tuesday after veering into oncoming traffic in Mechanicsville, leaving many unanswered questions about the incident.

Marlboro County Sheriff’s deputies were following Garner at the request of his wife, who asked them to conduct a welfare check. Authorities claim the pursuit was not related to any laws being broken but was initiated to ensure Garner’s safety.

Darlington County Coroner J. Todd Hardee described the pursuit as an effort to “protect the well-being of Mr. Garner.” However, the details remain unclear. Why was Garner’s welfare in question, and what led him to drive into oncoming traffic?

This incident comes just weeks after the entire McColl Police Department resigned. The police chief and four officers stepped down, citing “malicious behavior,” but details about their departure remain vague. Could this resignation have contributed to the circumstances surrounding Garner’s death?

Sheriff Charles Lemon has stated deputies were not actively chasing Garner. Still, their involvement raises questions about the events leading to the crash. Was Garner fleeing from a perceived threat, or was there another factor at play?

As investigations continue, the timing of these incidents points to potential instability within McColl’s leadership. The community is left demanding answers to understand the connection between these events and the loss of their mayor.