SAVANNAH, GA — A shooting at Oglethorpe Mall on Wednesday evening left multiple people injured and prompted a large-scale emergency and law enforcement response.

Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther addressed the media shortly after the incident, confirming that the violence stemmed from an altercation between two groups — not an active shooter situation.

“This is not a random act of violence,” Chief Gunther stated. “It appears to have been two groups involved in a dispute that escalated into gunfire. This was not an active shooter scenario.”

According to Gunther, three individuals — two young adults and one juvenile — sustained gunshot wounds.

Their injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening. Chatham EMS confirmed that a total of seven people were transported from the scene, four of whom suffered medical emergencies unrelated to gunfire.

One individual remains in critical condition.

The shooting began inside a store within the mall and continued outside, according to police.

The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m., prompting the immediate evacuation of Oglethorpe Mall and a swift lockdown of surrounding areas.

Firefighters from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 574 were dispatched at approximately 5:43 p.m. Multiple ambulances responded to the scene, and additional fire and EMS personnel were deployed to assist with triage and transportation of victims.

Authorities described the situation as “active and dangerous” earlier in the evening, urging the public to avoid the area. Witnesses reported being ordered to shelter in place inside stores until law enforcement secured the mall.

Security camera footage of the incident has since surfaced online, though law enforcement has not yet commented on the contents of the leak.

The Savannah Police Department, alongside other local and federal agencies, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Officials have not announced any arrests or identified the individuals involved.

“This is a serious matter that involved multiple victims and created fear and confusion in our community,” Gunther added. “We are working diligently to ensure justice is served and the public remains safe.”

Residents are encouraged to report any additional information or video related to the incident and to continue avoiding the area while the investigation remains active.

Updates will be provided as new details emerge.