US: Five soldiers shot, suspect apprehended in active shooter incident at Fort Stewart army base in Georgia
US: All individuals within the impacted area of the base were ordered to remain indoors and securely close and lock all windows and doors, as the threat was still ongoing. In response to the lockdown, Fort Stewart announced that all access gates to the facility had been shut.
Five soldiers were shot on Wednesday (August 6) at Fort Stewart in Georgia, prompting a lockdown of the Army base before authorities arrested the shooter. Details regarding the conditions of the injured soldiers and the motive behind the shooting remain unclear as the Army continues its investigation. The injured soldiers were treated on-site and then transported to Winn Army Community Hospital, with officials assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community. Law enforcement responded swiftly to the 2nd Armoured Brigade Combat Team complex shortly before 11:00 am, apprehending the suspect by 11:35 am.
The lockdown at the complex lasted about an hour, while three schools just outside the base also implemented lockdown measures “out of an abundance of caution,” according to the Liberty County School System. The schools, which include three elementary schools on the fort, serve nearly 1,400 students, according to the Department of Defense.
Fort Stewart, located approximately 64 kilometers southwest of Savannah, is the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River and houses thousands of soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division and their families. The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, known as the “Spartan Brigade” and regarded by the Army as its “most modern land fighting force,” has been stationed there since its formation in 2016.
Fort Stewart army base in Georgia on lockdown
Fort Stewart, the largest US Army installation east of the Mississippi River, was placed on lockdown on Wednesday (August 6) after reports of an active shooter emerged, according to an Army spokesperson. The sprawling military base in southeast Georgia, home to the Third Infantry Division, issued urgent shelter-in-place orders as military police and emergency responders raced to the scene.
“We are currently assessing the situation, but we can confirm an active shooter,” said Lt. Colonel Angel Tomko.
Casualties reported, but details remain unclear
In a statement released on Fort Stewart’s official Facebook page, officials earlier confirmed that casualties have been reported, though it was not immediately clear whether this referred to injuries, fatalities, or both. Authorities have not disclosed how many individuals may have been affected or the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Personnel urged to shelter in place
All personnel within the affected area of the base were instructed to “stay inside, close and lock all windows and doors,” as the threat remained active. In response to the lockdown, Fort Stewart confirmed that all gates to the installation had been closed to prevent entry or exit.
Military and state officials monitoring situation
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp confirmed that he is in communication with law enforcement agencies responding to the incident. Meanwhile, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, whose district includes Fort Stewart, said he is closely monitoring the unfolding situation.
About fort stewart
Located roughly 64 kilometers (40 miles) southwest of Savannah, Fort Stewart is a key military hub housing thousands of soldiers and their families. Its strategic importance and large population make the current lockdown a major security concern.
Situation ongoing
As of now, the Army and law enforcement are actively responding to the situation. More details are expected as investigations continue and the base works to ensure the safety of its personnel.