The city, left without a police force, now also has no mayor

Darlington County, South Carolina (WMBF/Gray News) – A city left without a police force now also has no mayor.

Mayor McColl, South Carolina, died in an accident on Tuesday.

Mayor George Garner died in a crash on Highway 34 in Mechanicsville, South Carolina.

Coroner Todd Hardee said a Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office deputy was following Garner at the time of the crash.

“The pursuit was unrelated to any law breaking,” Hardee said. “The pursuit was intended to protect Mr. Garner’s welfare.”

Hardee said a ruling on the circumstances surrounding Garner’s death would be made in a few days.

“Please keep this family and the wonderful people of neighboring Marlboro County in your prayers,” Hardee said.

According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Garner was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe when he crossed the center line and struck a semi-trailer.

Garner and the trailer driver were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Garner died from his injuries. He was 49 years old.

News of his death came after residents were notified last week that the city would be left without a police force after the entire department resigned.