Savannah mayor urges patience as GBI investigates shooting in Plant Riverside District

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah Mayor Van Johnson is urging the public to remain patient as the Georgia Bureau of Investigation continues to investigate a deadly shooting in the Plant Riverside District.

The shooting happened last week and involved five police officers. Authorities say 27-year-old Mark Dennis Whibbey Jr. was shot and killed after allegedly reaching for a gun during an encounter with law enforcement.

According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, police first received a 9-1-1 call on West Congress Street reporting a man waving a firearm. Investigators say Whibbey later shoplifted from a BP convenience store at the corner of MLK Boulevard and Bay Street, where officers made contact with him.

Authorities say Whibbey then walked past Poe’s Tavern and eventually entered the Plant Riverside District. Witnesses reported a seven-minute standoff along the river. Investigators say officers opened fire after seeing Whibbey reach for a gun.

Mayor Johnson said he understands the community’s concerns as videos of the shooting from multiple angles continue to circulate on social media. He acknowledged Whibbey’s reported mental health struggles but said the presence of a firearm in a crowded public area change how officers must respond.

“There’s not much you can do when an individual has a gun,” Johnson said. “At any moment, that individual can use it and put someone at risk.”

Johnson added that officers receive training to deal with people experiencing mental health crises, but said public safety remains the top priority. He also offered condolences to Whibbey’s family.

The five officers involved in the shooting are currently on administrative leave. Johnson said he has been in communication with them as the investigation continues.

Because Georgia is an open-carry state, Johnson also shared guidance for citizens who may be armed when interacting with police. He said individuals should immediately notify officers if they are carrying a firearm, clearly state where the weapon is located, keep their hands visible and comply with all commands.