SAVANNAH, Ga. – A bustling tourist area in Savannah, Georgia was rocked by a gunfight late Saturday night, leaving 11 people injured. This was just one of five shootings that occurred over the weekend, two of which were fatal, according to authorities.
The chaos began on Friday when two separate shootings resulted in two injuries. Then, on Saturday, two more shootings took place, resulting in two deaths. The final shooting of the weekend occurred just before midnight near Savannah’s Ellis Square.
According to Police Chief Lenny Gunther, the shooting was sparked by an argument between two women in a local business. “One shot rang out, and that triggered other individuals to start shooting,” he explained. “Multiple people discharged their weapons, resulting in multiple injuries.”
Out of the 11 injured, 10 were hit by gunfire, while the cause of the 11th injury is still unknown. Thankfully, none of the injuries were life-threatening, and victims were treated at the scene. Some were also taken to the hospital for further treatment.
Mayor Van Johnson addressed the issue of gun violence in the city, stating that the easy access to guns was a contributing factor to the shootings. He emphasized the need for reasonable gun control laws and for responsible gun ownership. “We have to insist on smart gun laws and hold people accountable for their actions,” he said at a Sunday news conference.
The mass shooting occurred just a week before the busy Memorial Day weekend, which brings in a large number of tourists to the city. However, Police Chief Gunther assured the public that there will be sufficient police staffing to ensure their safety.
Ellis Square, where the shooting took place, is located in Savannah’s historic district, a popular area among tourists and locals alike. The square, which was developed in 2010, is known for its beautiful fountain and a life-sized statue of songwriter Johnny Mercer.
This weekend’s shootings were not the only incidents of gun violence in Savannah. On Friday, two shootings occurred, resulting in one injury each and an arrest in both cases. On Saturday, police responded to a call about a home invasion and found a deceased juvenile. Initial reports suggest that shots were fired after a resident confronted an armed intruder. Another shooting was reported at a Savannah intersection on Saturday night, resulting in the death of one man and an injured juvenile.
The string of shootings has left the city in shock and mourning. However, it has also sparked a conversation about the need for stricter gun laws and responsible gun ownership. Mayor Johnson urged the community to work together to address the issue of gun violence and make Savannah a safer place for everyone.
As we approach the Memorial Day weekend, let us remember the lives lost in these senseless acts of violence and come together to find solutions to prevent such tragedies from happening again. Let us also keep in mind the importance of responsible gun ownership and the impact it can have on our communities. Together, we can make Savannah a safer and more peaceful place for all.
