WTOC Investigates: Savannah Police Department deadly force policy

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A police-involved shooting that left a suspect dead in downtown Savannah Wednesday afternoon is being investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, as required by Savannah Police Department procedure.

READ: Fatal shooting involving SPD and suspect with a gun in area of MLK and Bay Street

SPD policy says deadly force is only authorized when an officer believes it’s necessary to defend someone in danger of death or serious bodily injury, but should use less-deadly force and attempt de-escalation when possible.

The shooting occurred after police responded to reports of a man with a gun on West Congress Street. Video provided to WTOC by witnesses who did not wish to be identified showed what appeared to be a man wearing a white T-shirt and holding a gun. The witnesses said they watched the man walk down the road and later heard gunshots.

Policy dictates investigation procedures

Department policy says after an officer has taken a shot, officers must check for injuries, give medical aid, and request EMS and a supervisor.

If the shooting seriously injures or kills someone, SPD policy says the investigation must be handed over to the GBI, while SPD’s Office of Professional Standards conducts an administrative review. The officer that fired the shot may be placed on administrative leave during that review.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the incident as SPD policy requires. Police Chief Lenny Gunther left Savannah’s City Council meeting Thursday, which was ongoing at the time of the shooting.

Scene cleared after investigation

The Savannah Police Department said no officers were injured in the incident and there is no current threat to the public. MLK Boulevard was closed between Bay Street and River Street during the investigation.

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene, including the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah Police Department, Savannah Fire Department and Chatham EMS.

Police began removing caution tape and many law enforcement vehicles left the area by 3:49 p.m. Officials asked the public to avoid the area and expect traffic delays during the investigation.