News Summary
A shooting incident at Fort Stewart resulted in five soldiers being injured when Army Sergeant Quornelius Radford opened fire during a confrontation. The lockdown at the base lasted three hours while the shooter was subdued by fellow soldiers. The firearm used was not military-issued, raising security concerns. The injured soldiers are in stable condition and undergoing treatment. The incident has led to a review of security measures and has highlighted the importance of mental health resources in the military.
Fort Stewart, Georgia – An incident of gun violence occurred at Fort Stewart on August 6, 2025, when Army Sergeant Quornelius Radford, 28, opened fire, injuring five soldiers during a confrontation in the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team area. The shooting took place at around 11:00 a.m., prompting a lockdown at the base that lasted for nearly three hours before being lifted shortly before 2:00 p.m.
Radford, who serves as an Automated Logistics Specialist with the U.S. Army, allegedly used a personal handgun in the attack, firing on fellow service members. Witnesses reported that he followed one of the victims prior to the shooting; however, the exact motive for his actions remains unclear. Immediate action from nearby soldiers resulted in Radford being subdued before law enforcement arrived at approximately 11:35 a.m.
All five soldiers injured in the incident are reported to be in stable condition, with expectations of recovery. Initial medical treatment was administered on-site before the victims were transported to Winn Army Community Hospital and Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah for further care, three of whom underwent surgery due to the severity of their injuries.
Security and Regulatory Concerns
Army officials have confirmed that the firearm used in this incident was not a military-issued weapon, making its presence on the base a violation of Army regulations. The Army Secretary, Dan Driscoll, acknowledged the quick response of the soldiers who intervened, stating that necessary measures would be taken to enhance security protocols at Fort Stewart following this event.
Background on the Suspect
Sgt. Radford joined the U.S. Army in January 2018 and has been stationed at Fort Stewart since 2022 without having been deployed. His prior behavior has come under scrutiny, including a recent DUI arrest in May 2025, a fact that his chain of command was apparently unaware of at the time of the incident. Former colleagues reported instances of bullying directed at Radford due to a speech impediment he has had since childhood, which could provide context for his unstable behavior, although no direct link has been established regarding the motive for the shooting.
Witness Accounts
Accounts from fellow soldiers indicated that Radford had exhibited normal behavior in the moments leading up to the incident, showing no previous signs of violent conduct. Such assessments have raised questions about what could have led to the sudden outburst of violence.
Community Impact
The shooting has shocked both the military community and local civilians. Concerns have been raised regarding safety on military installations, and there has been an outpouring of support for the injured soldiers and their families. Six soldiers who bravely intervened during the shooting received the Meritorious Service Medal for their actions in subduing Radford and providing aid to the injured.
Post-Incident Review
Fort Stewart, recognized as the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi, is now reviewing its security protocols in light of this serious incident. Attention to tightening gun restrictions and improving mental health resources within the ranks are expected to be a high priority for military officials moving forward.
This tragic event not only underscores the unpredictable nature of human behavior but also highlights the ongoing discussion surrounding weapon regulations and mental health support within the armed forces.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox News: Who is Quornelius Radford?
- USA Today: Fort Stewart shooting injures soldiers
- CNN: Fort Stewart Shooting Army Secretary Visit
- WTOC: Fort Stewart Shooter Lockdown Lifted
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fort Stewart