News Summary
Savannah Police are investigating a recent gunfire incident on McKenzie Place, where a woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The ShotSpotter technology has identified numerous potential gunfire incidents this year, but a significant number remain unreported. The department encourages community involvement in reporting such incidents. In other related events, separate arrests have been made linked to gunfire alerts. Investigations continue as authorities aim to ensure public safety amid ongoing concerns about the implications of the technology on policing.
Savannah – Savannah Police responded to a ShotSpotter alert on McKenzie Place where they found a woman with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred in the 400 block of the neighborhood. Authorities are currently investigating the situation and encourage anyone with relevant information to contact CrimeStoppers at 912-234-2020 or utilize the Savannah Police Department mobile app to remain anonymous. This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as new information becomes available.
In 2024, ShotSpotter technology, which detects incidents of gunfire, identified 950 potential gunfire incidents within a nine-mile radius of Savannah. However, only 466 of these incidents were noted in official reports by Savannah Police. A report is typically generated following a ShotSpotter alert if officers find ballistic evidence or damage. The city’s investment in ShotSpotter technology has expanded its coverage from 7.5 to approximately 9 square miles in the past year.
According to recent statistics, ShotSpotter has demonstrated a high level of accuracy, distinguishing between actual gunfire and other noises. From July 3 to July 4, 2024, over 92% of flagged incidents were accurately ruled out. Each ShotSpotter sensor efficiently covers 15 to 20 square miles and can detect gunfire within 60 seconds, allowing law enforcement to pinpoint the origin of gunshots within ten meters.
Despite the advanced technology, only 14% of gunshot incidents in Savannah are reported to 9-1-1. So far this year, there have been only 135 emergency calls concerning gunfire, showing a decrease from 158 calls during the same period last year. The exact placements of ShotSpotter devices remain confidential, as they are installed on private properties with the owner’s consent. ShotSpotter technology was initially implemented by the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2014, with the city spending over $1.7 million on the technology since 2022.
Critics have raised concerns about ShotSpotter’s role in contributing to over-policing in certain communities. However, Savannah Police Department asserts that the technology aims to respond effectively to genuine gunfire, without artificially increasing police presence in specific neighborhoods.
In separate incidents linked to the use of ShotSpotter, Kearston Berksteiner, aged 26, was arrested on Sunday morning after a gunfire report near Mills B. Lane Blvd and Liberty Pkwy. Police did not find any victims or property damage during their investigation but apprehended Berksteiner based on evidence from Flock cameras. He faces several charges, including unauthorized discharge of a firearm and is being held at Chatham County Jail with a bond set at $5,150.
Another notable incident involved 19-year-old Kyseem Hawk, who was arrested for home invasion, two counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime following a shooting reported via ShotSpotter in the 700 block of East 53rd Street. In this case, a woman reported that someone had entered her residence and opened fire. Simultaneously, a man with gunshot wounds arrived at a hospital, linking the shooting to the reported incident. Additionally, Jamile Pointer, discovered near the crime scene with a firearm, was charged with burglary.
The investigations surrounding these alarming events continue, with authorities working diligently to gather more information and ensure community safety.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Savannah Police Investigates Shooting on McKenzie Place
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- Savannah Now: SPD Uses ShotSpotter to Track Gunfire
- Google Search: ShotSpotter technology
- WJCL: Flock Cameras Help Savannah Police Arrest Shots Fired Suspect
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
- WTOC: Savannah Police Investigating Shooting in Ardsley Park Area
- Google News: Savannah Police Department
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
