Who was Georgeann Garner? A Single Mother Killed in Florida Road Rage Shooting

A devoted single mother of two, Georgeann had just been reveling in the festivities of a Mardi Gras parade in Panama City Beach, Florida, to mark her birthday. The vibrant atmosphere of the parade was a testament to her love for life and her desire to create cherished memories with her family.

Mom of two Georgeann Park Garner was killed in a horrific road rage attack in Florida

In a devastating turn of events, 48-year-old Georgeann Park Garner, a devoted single mother of two, was tragically killed in a road rage shooting in Panama City, Florida, on her birthday. The senseless act of violence also left her 19-year-old daughter, Marileigh Lewis, critically injured, casting a long shadow of grief over a day meant for celebration.

A Day of Joy Turned Fatal

On Saturday, February 22, 2025, Georgeann and Marileigh were immersed in the joyous atmosphere of a Mardi Gras parade in Panama City Beach. The mother and daughter were celebrating Georgeann's birthday, surrounded by colorful floats, lively music, and laughter. After leaving the parade around 4 p.m., they planned to continue the celebration over dinner at a local restaurant.

Their red GMC Terrain, however, became entangled in a minor traffic incident with a gray Dodge Ram pickup truck driven by 21-year-old Ivybella Encino, with 23-year-old passenger Jubal Simmons. What started as a minor altercation quickly spiraled into tragedy. According to police reports, a brief verbal exchange led to a physical confrontation between Marileigh and Encino. Shortly after, both parties returned to their vehicles, but the danger was far from over.

The deadly road-rage horror in Florida as motorist opens fire in Panama City:

The Chilling Moment of the Attack

As Georgeann’s vehicle waited at a red light, the Dodge Ram, driven by Encino, pulled alongside them. Without warning, Simmons allegedly pulled out a gun and fired approximately 11 shots into the vehicle at point-blank range. Both Georgeann and Marileigh were struck in the chest, and another uninvolved vehicle was also hit by stray bullets.

A bystander captured the horrifying scene on video, showing the rapid succession of gunfire before the gray truck sped away. Onlookers rushed to provide first aid until emergency services arrived. Despite their efforts, Georgeann succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital, while Marileigh remains in critical condition, battling extensive internal damage in the ICU.

The Aftermath: A Pursuit and Arrest

The Shooters in the Tragic Road-Rage Shooting in Panama City, Florida

Following the shooting, Encino and Simmons attempted to flee. A police officer who had been in a nearby parking lot heard the gunshots and initiated a high-speed pursuit. The chase ended in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn, where Encino reportedly rammed a patrol car before being taken into custody. Simmons fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. Authorities recovered the firearm, which had been discarded during the escape.

Learn more: Who are Jubal Simmons and Ivybella Encino? Suspects in Road Shooting in Panama City, Florida

Seeking Justice

Simmons now faces nine charges, including first-degree premeditated murder, three counts of attempted murder, tampering with evidence, and resisting arrest. He is being held without bond. Encino, his girlfriend and the driver of the truck, has been charged with accessory to murder, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, and driving with a suspended license. Her bond is set at $800,500.

A Community in Mourning

In the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, the community has come together to support Marileigh and honor Georgeann’s memory. A GoFundMe campaign created by Georgeann’s best friend describes her as a woman with a radiant smile and an infectious laugh. "Her eyes twinkled when she laughed and glittered when she snorted," the page reads. "She was taken from us far too quickly by ruthless people whose hearts were full of hate."

The fundraiser aims to cover Marileigh’s mounting medical expenses and provide some stability during this difficult time. "Marileigh suffered a bullet to the chest and almost lost her life too. She will need time to heal and her medical bills will be extensive and expensive," the campaign states.

Reflections and Lessons

This heartbreaking incident has reignited discussions about road rage and the broader issue of gun violence. Authorities urge the public to practice patience and caution on the roads, emphasizing the importance of de-escalating potentially volatile situations.

Georgeann Park Garner’s story is a painful reminder of the fragility of life. Her legacy is not defined by the tragic circumstances of her death but by the love and joy she brought to those around her. As Marileigh fights for her life, the community's outpouring of love serves as a beacon of hope amid the darkness.

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