Heroes honored for courageous lifesaving efforts

Published 1:42 pm Friday, June 13, 2025

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Don’t call them good Samaritans. They’re heroes.

On Friday, the Troup County Sheriff’s Office and City of LaGrange gathered to recognize two amazing men for their brave efforts that saved a woman’s life.

Just over a month ago, Zion Reed, 22, and Drew Garner, Wrestling Coach at Troup High School, stepped up when it mattered most and prevented what could have been a terrible tragedy.

On May 2,  a woman was driving near the Bryant Lake subdivision on Hamilton Road in LaGrange when she suffered a seizure behind the wheel and her car drifted into oncoming traffic. Fortunately, Reed noticed something was wrong and without hesitation, ran toward the moving car and dove headfirst inside, managing to  hit the brakes and stop the car just feet from a dump truck.

Garner also reacted swiftly, calling 911 and remaining calm as he provided first responders with the information they needed and captured photos to provide details of the event.

Their quick action likely saved not only the woman’s life, but possibly the lives of others on that busy road, said Capt. Nathan Taylor of the Troup County Sheriff’s Office.

“Thanks to the courage and quick thinking of Zion and Drew, she’s alive today,”  Taylor said. “Today, the Troup County Sheriff’s Office and the City of LaGrange are proud to honor both Zion Reed and Drew Garner for their courage and for looking out for someone in need.”

LaGrange Mayor Jim Arrington also issued a proclamation honoring the pair of heroes.

“What happened that morning is a powerful reminder of what makes LaGrange such a special place to live. We talk a lot about community — about neighbors helping neighbors — and this is exactly what that looks like,” Arrington said.

“Zion didn’t stop to think about his own safety. He saw someone in trouble and ran toward the danger to help. Drew stayed calm, called for help, and made sure first responders had the information they needed. Together, they both made a difference and together they saved a life,” Arrington said.

“May we all be a little more like Drew and Zion — willing to look out for one another, willing to act when others need us. Because the truth is, we need each other. That’s what makes us a true community,” he said.

“Zion and Drew — from all of us here at the City of LaGrange, thank you. You’ve made your families proud, and you’ve inspired this whole community. We’re honored to recognize your courage here today.” Arrington said in closing.