USA Today, June 2021
A manhunt was underway for the gunman who opened fire outside a residence here, killing one person and wounding seven in one of three weekend mass shootings across the nation. Police Chief Roy Minter, Jr., says a driver rolled up late Friday and opened fire in a “disturbing and senseless” attack possibly linked to an ongoing dispute between two groups. Two people were in critical condition, and the wounded included an 18-month old child. More than 60 rounds were fired. Minter said there had been reports of gunshots being fired at the same apartment complex earlier in the week.
The death was the 14th homicide in Savannah this year. Last year this time there had been 18 homicides. But Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said violent crimes are up by about 12%, most involving non-fatal shootings. The solution, Johnson said, isn’t more police on the streets. He emphasized the need for engaged residents to speak up when they see crime. Such action, Johnson and Minter said, might have pre-empted what developed Friday.
