Crime
3 people shot at Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah
A total of four ambulances were observed leaving the scene with patients.
SAVANNAH, GA — Multiple people were injured during a shooting incident at Oglethorpe Mall on Wednesday evening, prompting a large-scale emergency response and the evacuation of the shopping center.
Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther confirmed that seven individuals were transported from the scene with various injuries.
Of those, three were gunshot victims — two young adults and one juvenile — while the remaining four sustained non-gunshot-related medical emergencies.
One individual is currently reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities said the incident was not classified as an “active shooter” situation.
According to preliminary findings, the shooting erupted between two groups inside a store and continued outside the mall premises.
The shooting occurred around 5:45 p.m., and the mall was subsequently evacuated.
A significant law enforcement presence remains in the area as the investigation continues.
Emergency crews, including Savannah Fire and EMS, as well as firefighters from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 574, responded rapidly to the scene. Additional personnel were dispatched to assist with triage and medical transport.
Firefighters were initially called at 5:43 p.m. to respond to the reported shooting.
According to IAFF officials, the incident involved a “multi-agency response” and required immediate medical attention for multiple patients. At least four ambulances were seen departing the scene.
“This remains an active and potentially dangerous situation. We urge the public to avoid the Oglethorpe Mall area as first responders work to secure the scene and assist those affected,” an IAFF spokesperson said.
The Savannah Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
More details will be provided as the investigation develops.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.