Driver arrested for alleged Manslaughter of Auburn road worker

AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) – Nearly ten months after a worker was hit and killed in a construction zone, Auburn police have arrested and charged the driver with alleged manslaughter.

Tara Renee Harris, a 36-year-old Auburn resident, was working as a flagger when she was hit by a vehicle in October of 2023. On August 25, 2024, Wesley Lindsey, 30, was arrested and charged with allegedly striking and killing Harris on U.S. Highway 29 South in Auburn as Harris was performing traffic control duties in a designated work zone.

Heather Bridge, Renee’s sister, spoke with WRBL shortly after the arrest.

“Her absence leaves a void in our hearts, she is missed more than words can express. Renee was a devoted mother of two whose love for turtles, the beach, and puzzles was only surpassed by her deep affection for her family and friends. Renee cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, and her bond with her nieces and nephews was incredibly close,” said Bridge.

Harris was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. Following her death, her body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences (ADFS) in Montgomery for a postmortem examination.

The investigation, which spanned several months, culminated in Lindsey’s arrest. Auburn police have not released further details about the circumstances leading to the manslaughter charge.

Lindsey has made a bond from the Lee County Detention Center, and is awaiting his court appearance.

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