### South Carolina Mayor Dies in Pursuit Days After Police Force Resignation

A tragic incident unfolded in South Carolina when McColl Mayor George Garner II died during a pursuit by law enforcement on Tuesday. The fatal chase ended when Garner's vehicle collided head-on with an 18-wheeler as he veered into eastbound traffic. This incident comes on the heels of a significant upheaval within the town's police department, which saw the resignation of its entire force only five days prior.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division had been conducting an active investigation involving Garner, although the specifics remain unclear. Ornith County Coroner revealed that the law enforcement pursuit was initiated not because of any broken laws but rather in an effort to ensure Mayor Garner's well-being. The coroner assured that more details will be forthcoming in the days ahead.

The turmoil in McColl's police department began to unravel on November 21 when Police Chief Bob Hale and his team of five officers collectively resigned. In a candid Facebook post, Hale cited repeated acts of harassment and personal attacks from a town council member as the primary reasons for his departure. According to Hale, the council member had also slashed the police department's funding upon assuming office, significantly hampering their operational capabilities.

The McColl police department has faced internal conflict in the past as well. Earlier this year, in June, the previous police chief resigned, attributing his departure to a hostile work environment allegedly caused by Mayor Garner.