News Summary
The Savannah Police Department is actively seeking assistance from the public to identify individuals connected to an aggravated assault on Wheaton Street. Authorities have also made multiple arrests in related incidents, including an armed confrontation with a suspect who fled from a traffic stop. The SPD emphasizes community cooperation in maintaining public safety.
Savannah – The Savannah Police Department is actively seeking public assistance in identifying several individuals connected to a recent aggravated assault that took place on August 22nd in the 700 block of Wheaton Street. The police have shared images of these individuals on social media platforms, urging the community to help with their identities.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information regarding the suspects to contact CrimeStoppers at 912-234-2020 or utilize the Savannah Police Department (SPD) mobile app, which allows for anonymous tips. This outreach is part of a broader effort to enhance community safety and information sharing.
In a related investigation, the police are looking into an incident involving 18-year-old Joshua Watson, who was arrested after an armed confrontation. Watson, who was previously on bond for illegal possession of a firearm, was suspected of involvement in an earlier aggravated assault at Frazier Homes. A recent traffic stop on Watson occurred when he failed to stop at East Duffy and Jefferson Street.
During the traffic stop, Watson attempted to flee on a bicycle and subsequently on foot, with officers observing him being armed. Despite being commanded to halt, Watson disregarded the instructions and made movements that suggested he was reaching for his weapon. The chase concluded when Watson fell, but he continued to resist arrest, prompting officers to prepare for safety by drawing their taser and firearm. However, the taser was not deployed due to the proximity to the suspect. Ultimately, Watson was taken into custody, and a stolen firearm was discovered in his waistband.
Watson faces multiple charges which include theft by receiving a stolen firearm, felony obstruction, unlawful possession of a firearm by a person under the age of 21, and failure to stop at a traffic control signal. Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther highlighted the professionalism exhibited by the officers during the encounter and reiterated the department’s commitment to accountability and transparency. A formal use-of-force investigation concerning this incident is currently underway.
Additionally, the SPD has secured several arrest warrants for two suspects related to the Oglethorpe Mall shooting that occurred on July 2. These suspects, both under 18 years of age, were hospitalized following the incident. Upon their release from Memorial Health University Medical Center, they are expected to be transported to the Chatham County Detention Center. The warrants in this case include charges of felony murder and aggravated assault, along with possession of a handgun by a person under the age of 18 and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
The Oglethorpe Mall shooting tragically resulted in the death of Olislene “Tina” Smith, who suffered heart complications related to the incident. Following the shooting, the SPD has chosen not to pursue charges for underage firearm possession against the two suspects involved. The ongoing investigation into the shooting remains a top priority for the Chatham County District Attorney’s office.
The Savannah Police Department is committed to maintaining public safety and encourages anyone who may have additional information about either investigation to come forward through CrimeStoppers or the SPD mobile app. The cooperation of the community is essential in addressing crime and ensuring accountability for those involved in violent acts.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Savannah Police Looking to Identify Individuals in Connection with Aggravated Assault
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- WJCL: Savannah Joshua Watson Arrest Video
- Google Search: Savannah Police Department
- Savannah Now: Savannah PD Arrests Third Minor for Oglethorpe Mall Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gang Violence
- WTOC: Savannah Police Looking to Identify Individuals in Connection with Island Breeze Aggravated Assault
- Google News: Savannah Police Crime
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.
