**SCREVEN COUNTY, Ga.** – On the evening of July 19, 2025, the Screven County Sheriff’s Office apprehended 20-year-old Theron Robbins, a suspect wanted in connection with a deadly shooting at Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah on July 2, 2025. The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has gripped the Savannah community and heightened concerns about public safety.
Acting on a tip from a concerned citizen, Screven County Sheriff’s deputies located Robbins hiding in a closet at a residence in the Redfield Road area of Screven County. He was taken into custody without incident and is now being held on active warrants issued by the Savannah Police Department for charges of aggravated assault and murder.
**Details of the Oglethorpe Mall Shooting**
The incident at Oglethorpe Mall, a major shopping destination in Savannah, occurred on July 2, 2025, and resulted in significant tragedy. According to the Savannah Police Department, the shooting stemmed from an altercation between two groups inside a store, identified by witnesses as Elevate. Three individuals—two young adults and one juvenile—suffered non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and were transported to Memorial Health University Medical Center for treatment. Additionally, four other individuals experienced medical emergencies during the chaotic event, including Olislene “Tina” Smith, a 69-year-old Savannah woman who suffered a fatal heart attack exacerbated by the incident, as confirmed by authorities.
The shooting prompted a swift response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Savannah Police Department, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, and emergency medical services. The mall was evacuated, and the SWAT team conducted a thorough sweep to ensure no further threats remained. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson emphasized that the incident was not a random act of violence, and Police Chief Lenny Gunther assured the public that the department is committed to holding those responsible accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
**Investigation and Arrests**
Theron Robbins, identified as a 20-year-old Savannah resident, emerged as a key suspect in the days following the shooting. On July 18, 2025, the Savannah Police Department issued a public call for assistance in locating Robbins, describing him as 5’9” and approximately 220 pounds. The subsequent tip that led to his arrest underscores the vital role of community cooperation in law enforcement efforts.
Robbins is the fifth suspect arrested in connection with the Oglethorpe Mall shooting. Prior arrests include Aujawan Tyrell Hymon, 20, who was apprehended on July 5, 2025, and charged with possession of an illegal weapon, and Johnathan Elijah Jones, also 20, arrested on July 9, 2025, facing charges of murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and two counts of aggravated assault. Additionally, two juvenile suspects, currently hospitalized for injuries sustained during the incident, have been served warrants for felony murder, aggravated assault, and firearms-related charges. These juveniles will be charged as adults upon their release from the hospital and transferred to the Chatham County Detention Center.
Savannah Mayor Van Johnson noted that several suspects, including Hymon, have known gang affiliations, though further investigation is needed to determine if the shooting was gang-related. The Savannah Police Department, in collaboration with the Chatham County District Attorney’s Office, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, with District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones vowing to bring the “full weight” of the law against those responsible.
**Community Impact and Public Safety**
The Oglethorpe Mall shooting has left a profound impact on Savannah, shattering the sense of safety in a place where families and residents gather to shop and socialize. Savannah Alderman Nick Palumbo described the incident as one that “shatters our sense of safety,” while State Senator Derek Mallow called for a united effort to prevent such violence from defining the community. Local businessman O.C. Welch offered a $12,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooters, reflecting the community’s urgency to see justice served.
The Screven County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the public’s assistance, stating, “The swift and safe apprehension of Theron Robbins is a testament to the dedication of our officers and the vigilance of our community.” Authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time but continue to urge anyone with information about the shooting or Robbins’ activities to contact the Savannah Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit at 912-525-3124 or Crimestoppers of Savannah-Chatham County at 912-234-2020 for anonymous tips. Tips can also be submitted through the SPD mobile app.
**Moving Forward**
As Theron Robbins awaits transfer to Savannah Police custody for formal charging and judicial proceedings, the investigation into the Oglethorpe Mall shooting remains active. Authorities are exploring the possibility of additional suspects or accomplices and are committed to uncovering the full scope of the incident. The Savannah Police Department and Chatham County District Attorney’s Office have pledged to maintain transparency with the public while ensuring justice for the victims, including Olislene “Tina” Smith and those injured in the shooting.
This high-profile case has sparked broader conversations about public safety, gun violence, and community collaboration in Savannah. As the legal process unfolds, the city remains focused on healing and restoring confidence in its public spaces.
