WOODRUFF – The hashtag #NoJusticeForMekkellInWoodruff has sparked a wave of attention on social media, making its way into comments on several of The Woodruff Times’ Facebook posts. Seeking to delve into the significance behind this viral hashtag, The Woodruff Times sat down with Mr. Paul Meadows, father of Shirlann Mekkell Meadows and creator of the hashtag, to discuss the heartbreaking incident that prompted this outcry.
On Saturday, April 15, 2023, tragedy struck the Meadows family when Mr. Meadows’ daughter, Shirlann Mekkell Meadows, known as Mekkell, was involved in a devastating accident. Mekkell, aged 23, was struck and fatally run over by Furman Belcher, an 84-year-old resident of Campobello. The incident occurred at approximately 10:46 p.m., and despite being taken to the hospital, Mekkell tragically succumbed to her injuries later that night.
Following the incident, law enforcement authorities have charged Furman Belcher with “driving too fast for conditions” and has issued a warrant for his arrest. Chief Ryan of the Woodruff Police Department revealed that “efforts to contact Belcher have been unsuccessful thus far.” In their pursuit of justice, local authorities have sought the assistance of the agency in Belcher’s place of residence.
In our interview with Mr. Paul Meadows, the creator of the hashtag, he expressed his deep sorrow and the pain caused by the loss of his beloved daughter. He emphasized the importance of holding Belcher accountable for his actions.
As family and friends mourn the loss of Mikkell, the hashtag #NoJusticeForMekkellWoodruff serves as a powerful reminder and request for accountability and the pursuit of justice.
We will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as the investigation progresses.
Author: Tracy Sanders
