Multiple Injured in Oglethorpe Mall Shooting in Savannah; Dispute Between Two Groups Sparked Gunfire
SAVANNAH, GA — A chaotic and terrifying scene unfolded at Savannah’s Oglethorpe Mall on Wednesday evening, July 2, 2025, when a dispute between two groups erupted in gunfire, leaving multiple people injured and sparking panic among shoppers and staff. The incident occurred at approximately 5:45 p.m., sending the busy shopping center into lockdown and prompting a swift and overwhelming response from local law enforcement.
According to the Savannah Police Department, the shooting stemmed from a verbal altercation between two groups of individuals inside the mall that quickly escalated. Authorities say the confrontation turned violent when at least one person produced a firearm and began shooting. Gunfire erupted near the food court area, causing mall-goers to flee for cover, some taking shelter inside stores while others ran out of exits in fear.
Emergency services responded within minutes, and the mall was quickly secured as police worked to assess the situation and treat the injured. A total of five people were transported to area hospitals with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening. Two of the injured individuals are believed to be involved in the dispute, while the remaining victims appear to be bystanders caught in the crossfire.
Savannah Police Chief Cedric Hayes addressed the media shortly after the incident, calling the shooting a “senseless act of violence in a place where families, workers, and shoppers should feel safe.”
“We’re fortunate that no one lost their life tonight,” Chief Hayes said. “But this kind of violence has no place in our community. We are committed to finding those responsible and holding them accountable.”
As of Thursday morning, at least one suspect is in custody, and authorities are pursuing additional persons of interest. Surveillance footage from inside the mall is being reviewed, and investigators are calling on any witnesses with video or information to come forward.
Shoppers who were inside the mall at the time described moments of sheer terror.
“It sounded like fireworks at first, then people started screaming and running,” said Maria Ellis, who was shopping with her daughter. “We hid in a back room of one of the stores until police came and told us it was safe. It was terrifying.”
The mall remained closed for the rest of the evening as police continued their investigation and to ensure the premises were secure. A reunification area was established nearby for families and individuals who had been separated during the incident.
Local leaders and community advocates have expressed outrage and sorrow over the shooting, calling for unity, peace, and stronger preventive measures.
“This should have been just another summer evening,” said Savannah Mayor Vanessa Hall. “Instead, it became a nightmare for innocent people. We must work together—law enforcement, civic leaders, and residents—to address the underlying causes of this kind of violence.”
Oglethorpe Mall management issued a statement thanking first responders for their swift action and confirming that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement. Plans are in place to increase security measures at the shopping center, including additional patrols and surveillance.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not ruled out gang or group affiliations as possible motives in the shooting. The identities of the injured have not been released, pending family notifications.
Counseling services are being made available for those affected by the traumatic event, and the community is being urged to come together to support victims and their families during this difficult time.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Savannah Police Department’s Violent Crimes Division or Crime Stoppers.
This disturbing incident at Oglethorpe Mall serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence in public spaces—and the need for ongoing vigilance, community collaboration, and action to ensure safety for all.