The West Monroe community is reeling after the tragic death of David Garner, a 59‑year-old man who was struck and killed by a vehicle on Monday, November 17. The collision happened at the busy intersection of North 7th Street and Short Jackson — a spot many residents know all too well.
According to the West Monroe Police Department, Garner was attempting to cross the street when he was hit by a car driven by a juvenile. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the injuries he suffered were too severe; Garner died at the scene.
Police say that they do not believe impairment was a factor in the crash. Still, as part of their standard investigation, routine toxicology samples were taken to make sure nothing was overlooked.
Because a young driver was involved, the investigation turns particularly sensitive. Authorities are likely examining things like the driver’s experience, visibility conditions at the intersection, traffic volume, and possibly environmental factors that may have contributed to the tragedy.
Local residents are heartbroken, and for many, Garner’s death underscores ongoing concerns around pedestrian safety in West Monroe. The intersection where this happened sees a lot of foot and vehicle traffic — and now, people are demanding a closer look at how to prevent another tragedy.
As the police continue piecing together the exact sequence of events, the community is holding its breath. Garner’s family, friends, and neighbors want — and deserve — clear answers. In the meantime, his death is a painful reminder of how quickly something so ordinary as crossing the street can go so wrong, and how road safety affects all of us.
