Over 200 protest in Forsyth Park after teacher's death in ICE chase crash

Residents call for accountability following fatal incident involving driver fleeing immigration officers.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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More than 200 community members gathered in Forsyth Park, Savannah to protest the death of Dr. Linda Davis, a local educator, following a deadly crash involving a driver fleeing federal immigration officers. Witnesses reported emotional chants throughout the park as residents voiced frustration and demanded accountability.

Why it matters

The incident has sparked outrage in the community, raising questions about the role of federal immigration enforcement and the impact of high-speed chases on public safety. The death of a beloved teacher has deeply affected the local area.

The details

According to authorities, the driver, Oscar Vasquez Lopez, has been charged with felony first-degree vehicular homicide and multiple traffic violations in connection with the crash that killed Dr. Davis. He was denied bond and booked into the Chatham County Jail.

  • The protest took place on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Dr. Linda Davis

A Chatham County educator whose death in the crash has sparked outrage and protests in the community.

Oscar Vasquez Lopez

The driver who was fleeing from federal immigration officers and has been charged with felony first-degree vehicular homicide and multiple traffic violations in connection with the crash that killed Dr. Davis.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bond for Oscar Vasquez Lopez at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has highlighted the complex and emotional issues surrounding federal immigration enforcement, high-speed chases, and their impact on public safety. The community's call for accountability and change reflects the deep pain and frustration felt over the loss of a beloved educator.