The community of Garner, NC, is in deep mourning after a tragic car accident on Monday afternoon claimed the lives of a mother and father, and left their young child critically injured. The incident, which occurred just before 1:30 p.m. on US Business 70 at New Rand Road, involved three vehicles: a silver Chevrolet Trailblazer, a dark blue Mazda CX5 Select, and a black Cadillac Escalade.
What Happened in Garner, NC?
According to Garner Police, the fatal accident happened when a Chevrolet Trailblazer, driven by 25-year-old Jordan Alexander Porter of Garner, ran a red light while traveling west on US 70. The Trailblazer struck a Mazda CX5 Select that was traveling south on New Rand Road. The impact was devastating, resulting in the deaths of Tyler Campbell, 28, and Susan Campbell, 29, who were inside the Mazda. Their 8-year-old son, Miles Campbell, was critically injured and rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The Cadillac Escalade involved in the crash sustained minor damage, and its occupants were not injured. Following the accident, a stretch of US 70 was closed for several hours as police conducted their investigation, reopening the roadway shortly after 6:30 p.m.
Community Response and Call for Prayers
In the wake of the tragedy, the Garner community has rallied to support the Campbell family. On Tuesday evening, a vigil was planned at the local baseball fields to honor the lives of Tyler and Susan Campbell and to pray for the recovery of young Miles. Tyler Campbell’s mother, while declining formal interviews, has requested prayers for her grandson, who remains in critical condition.
Suspect Arrested
Jordan Alexander Porter, the driver of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, was also taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, and police have indicated that more charges are likely to follow. Despite attempts to reach out to Porter’s mother and wife, no comments were provided regarding the incident.
History of Traffic Violations
Court records reveal that Porter has a lengthy history of traffic violations dating back to 2015. These violations range in severity, with most charges being dismissed except for two incidents. In June 2015, Porter was found responsible for running a red light, a charge similar to the one involved in Monday’s tragic crash. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to consuming alcohol under 21 and failing to maintain lane control on New Year’s Day 2018. More recently, Porter received a speeding ticket for driving 21 mph above the speed limit last month, a case that is still pending in the court system.
Additional Charges and Ongoing Investigation
The Garner Police Department has stated that additional charges against Porter are expected, though the process will take several days. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the exact circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event.
Impact on the Community
The sudden and tragic loss of Tyler and Susan Campbell has left a void in the Garner community. Both were well-known and loved by their friends, family, and neighbors. Tyler was described as a dedicated husband and father, while Susan was known for her kind heart and active involvement in local community events. Their deaths have sparked an outpouring of grief and support from those who knew them.
A Mother’s Plea
Tyler Campbell’s mother has been vocal about her grief and her plea for the community’s support during this difficult time. “Please keep my family in your prayers! My grandson Miles is fighting for his life, and we need all the prayers we can get,” she said. Her statement reflects the deep sorrow and need for communal support as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Vigil and Memorial Services
The vigil held at the Garner baseball fields saw a significant turnout, with community members coming together to honor the memory of Tyler and Susan Campbell and to pray for the recovery of Miles. The scene was somber, with candles lit and heartfelt messages shared about the impact the Campbells had on their community.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the Garner community remains united in their grief and determination to support the Campbell family. The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users.
Conclusion
The loss of Tyler and Susan Campbell in the fatal crash on US Business 70 at New Rand Road is a devastating blow to the Garner community. As they mourn the passing of these beloved individuals, the focus now turns to supporting young Miles Campbell in his fight for life and ensuring that justice is served for the actions that led to this tragedy. The community’s response, characterized by compassion and solidarity, highlights the strength and resilience of those affected by this heartbreaking event.
