SAVANNAH, GA — Multiple Injured in Shooting at Oglethorpe Mall: Authorities Say Violence Stemmed from Dispute Between Two Groups
A routine Wednesday evening at Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah, Georgia, was shattered by sudden gunfire that left multiple individuals injured and set off a rapid and intense response from local law enforcement and emergency services.
The incident unfolded around 5:45 p.m., with initial reports of shots fired inside the busy shopping center quickly drawing heavy police presence and triggering an emergency lockdown of the area. Shoppers and employees were swiftly evacuated as authorities raced to secure the premises.
Cellphone video captured in the chaos showed moments of panic, with startled patrons scrambling for cover as loud gunshots rang out inside the mall. Within minutes, Savannah Police, Chatham County deputies, and emergency responders descended on the scene, establishing a perimeter and working to assist victims and restore order.
Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther held a press briefing shortly after the situation was stabilized, offering clarity amid public fears. He was quick to dispel early rumors of an active shooter.
“This is not a random act of violence,” Chief Gunther emphasized. “It appears to have been two groups involved in a dispute that escalated into gunfire. This was not an active shooter scenario.”
According to police, the violence began inside one of the retail stores within Oglethorpe Mall and continued into the exterior areas of the complex. The gunfire resulted in three individuals being struck — two young adults and one juvenile. All three sustained injuries that were initially reported as non-life-threatening.
In total, Chatham Emergency Medical Services reported that seven people were transported from the scene. While three had gunshot wounds, the remaining four were treated for medical emergencies stemming from the chaos — including stress-related conditions and possible injuries sustained during the rush to evacuate.
One individual, however, is reported to be in critical condition, though police have not confirmed whether this was due to gunshot wounds or other complications.
Chief Gunther noted that investigators are working to identify the individuals involved in the altercation, as well as the circumstances that led to the escalation. No arrests had been confirmed as of Wednesday night, but detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses.
The shooting shook the local community and sent shockwaves throughout Savannah, especially given the location and timing. Oglethorpe Mall, a central shopping hub in the area, was particularly busy with families and evening shoppers at the time of the shooting.
Witnesses described scenes of terror and confusion as shots rang out.
“I was just checking out at one of the stores when I heard what sounded like fireworks, and then everyone started running,” said Amanda Lewis, a shopper who was inside the mall during the incident. “It was terrifying. I didn’t know what was happening.”
Several stores immediately closed their doors and ushered customers to the back, following active shooter safety protocols until police arrived and cleared each area.
Mayor Van Johnson responded to the shooting on social media, praising first responders and urging calm while condemning the outbreak of violence.
“This kind of violence has no place in our city,” Mayor Johnson wrote. “We are grateful for the swift action of Savannah Police and EMS personnel who responded to protect lives and restore safety.”
The mall was closed for the remainder of the evening as police processed the scene, and it remained unclear when it would reopen. Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has video footage to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The community now waits for more details — including potential charges — as the investigation into what caused this public confrontation continues.
Savannah Police have pledged to increase patrols in the area and at other high-traffic locations in the city to reassure residents and prevent further incidents.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Savannah Police’s Violent Crimes Unit or submit tips anonymously through CrimeStoppers.