Multiple Injured in Oglethorpe Mall Shooting in Savannah; Police Say Violence Sparked by Group Dispute
SAVANNAH, GA — A routine Wednesday evening turned into a scene of chaos and fear at Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah as gunfire erupted inside the shopping center, leaving multiple people injured and sending scores of shoppers scrambling for safety. The incident occurred on July 2, 2025, around 5:45 p.m., during peak shopping hours, prompting a massive and swift law enforcement response.
According to Savannah Police, the shooting stemmed from a dispute between two groups that escalated inside the mall. The confrontation reportedly began with a verbal altercation and quickly turned violent when individuals from both groups drew firearms and began shooting. At least six people were injured in the exchange, including two who were believed to be involved in the dispute and four innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.
Shoppers described scenes of panic as shots rang out near the food court. Screams filled the air as people ran for cover, ducked behind counters, or hid inside store backrooms. Several retail employees quickly locked down their stores to protect customers as police units swarmed the area.
“I just heard popping sounds, and everyone started running,” said Amanda Kelley, who was shopping with her two young children at the time. “We hid in the fitting room of a clothing store until we were escorted out by police. I was terrified for my kids.”
Emergency medical teams rushed to the scene and transported the injured to local hospitals. As of Thursday morning, none of the injuries have been reported as life-threatening, though several individuals remain under medical observation.
Savannah Police Chief Cedric Hayes confirmed during a press briefing that one suspect was apprehended on the scene, while another fled and is currently being sought by authorities. Investigators are reviewing mall surveillance footage and collecting witness statements in an effort to piece together the sequence of events and identify all parties involved.
“This was a brazen act of violence that endangered countless innocent lives,” Chief Hayes said. “Let me be clear—anyone who brings violence into our community will be held fully accountable. We will not tolerate this type of reckless behavior.”
The incident forced a full lockdown and evacuation of Oglethorpe Mall. Shoppers were escorted out by officers in small groups, and a reunification site was established nearby for individuals separated from loved ones during the chaos. Mall management issued a statement expressing their concern for those affected and confirmed that they are cooperating fully with the police investigation.
Local leaders and residents are reeling from the violence, especially given its occurrence in a public space designed for families and community gathering. Savannah Mayor Vanessa Hall released a statement condemning the violence and pledging additional security measures.
“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families,” Mayor Hall said. “We will work with law enforcement and community partners to ensure that our public spaces remain safe for everyone.”
The Savannah Police Department is urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant video footage to come forward. They have set up a dedicated tip line and are offering anonymity for those concerned about retaliation.
As the investigation continues, police presence around the mall and other high-traffic areas in the city has been increased. Community organizations are also stepping in to offer trauma counseling and support services for those affected by the incident.
This latest shooting marks another reminder of the ongoing challenge cities across the nation face in preventing gun violence and keeping public areas secure. For many in Savannah, the events at Oglethorpe Mall serve as a call to action—for vigilance, reform, and unity in the face of senseless violence.