News Summary
The Chatham County Police Department is investigating an aggravated assault incident and is seeking public assistance for identifying a person of interest. In related news, a public school bus driver faces serious charges, and several individuals have been indicted for murder and gang-related activities. Community leaders emphasize their ongoing commitment to combat violence and enhance safety in Savannah.
Savannah, Georgia – The Chatham County Police Department (CCPD) is actively investigating an aggravated assault incident that occurred early in the morning of May 23, 2025. Officers responded to a call around 2:00 a.m. from a victim who reported a physical assault in the West Gateway Boulevard area. The police are now seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a person of interest related to this case. A photo of the individual has been released to aid in the identification process. Citizens who may have information are encouraged to contact the police department directly. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted either through the Chatham County Police Department app or via an online tip form. The Crime Stoppers hotline is also available at 912-234-2020, with the possibility for tipsters to receive a cash reward for helpful information.
In a related matter, Lakita Rosetta Byrd, a public school bus driver for Savannah-Chatham County, has been apprehended with several serious charges. Byrd is facing allegations for aggravated assault and unlawfully carrying a weapon in a school safety zone, at school functions, or while operating a school bus. Her bond has been set at $2,950, and more information regarding her arrest is expected to be released in the coming days.
In separate cases of violence, a Chatham County grand jury has indicted Terrell Nelson on grave charges including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and a firearms offense. These charges stem from the alleged shooting murder of Cantrelle Hayes, which took place on November 27, 2024. Nelson was taken into custody on December 1, 2024, and his bond hearing is set for tomorrow.
Another significant case involves Michael Angelo Mitchell, who is charged with the murder of his 4-year-old son on April 23, 2020. Mitchell’s defense has filed motions addressing statements made to law enforcement, and his jury trial is scheduled for this week.
Additionally, Micky Hamilton has been indicted on charges of malice murder along with further accusations related to the shooting murder of Richard Vinson, which occurred on November 14, 2020. A mistrial was declared in Hamilton’s case after new evidence came to light about a critical witness, prompting a new trial to be set for September 29.
Bernard Wolfolk faces indictment on charges of malice murder and felony murder following the shooting death of Laron Ashley on May 8, 2024. Ashley was pronounced dead shortly after the incident, which took place in the early hours of the day, at Memorial Health University Medical Center.
The Attorney General’s Gang Prosecution Unit has taken measures against gang-related activities, indicting three individuals: Treyvon Howard, Rashine Edwards, and Jakarie Cowell. These individuals, believed to be affiliated with the “Rock Out Gang” (ROG), associated with the Rollin’ 60s Crips, face multiple charges including aggravated assault and armed robbery. The incidents in question occurred at the Frazier Homes Apartment Complex and Oglethorpe Mall in Savannah. Since its establishment in July 2022, the Attorney General’s Gang Prosecution Unit has achieved over 80 convictions, highlighting the importance of combating gang violence in Georgia.
Community leaders continue to assert their commitment to tackling gang activities and holding violent offenders accountable as part of broader efforts to enhance safety and reduce crime in the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Three Women Charged After Altercation at Savannah Middle School
SCCPSS Seeks Community Input for New School Principals
Sgt. Carl Quarterman Files Lawsuit Against School District
Savannah Man Pleads Not Guilty to Ex-Girlfriend’s Murder
Gang Prosecution Unit Expands to Savannah
Indictment of Gang Members in Chatham County, Georgia
Rock Out Gang Members Indicted for Violent Crimes in Savannah
Pooler Man Arrested for Child Sex Crimes Following Disturbing Admission
Domestic Violence Incident in Savannah Leads to Arrest
Chatham County Teen Arrested for Arson and Burglary
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Bus Driver Arrested
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- Savannah Now: Court Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia
- All On Georgia: Gang Members Indicted
- Google Search: Savannah Crime News
- WSAV: Aggravated Assault Arrest
- Google News: Savannah Chatham County
- WJCL: Murder Arrest
- Google Scholar: Aggravated Assault Savannah
