Mayor Johnson says SPD has been involved in over 400 crashes since 2024

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah Mayor Van Johnson stated on November 3 that Savannah Police department vehicles were involved in 437 crashes since 2024.

The Numbers

Officers were at fault for 228 of these accidents, roughly 48% overall, according to Johnson. In 2024, officers were deemed at fault in 91 of 165 total crashes. That number fell to 84 out of 170 crashes in 2025, and so far in 2026, officers have been at fault in 53 of 102 accidents.

“These numbers deserve our attention and they also require some context,” said Mayor Johnson.

Johnson claims the number of at fault accidents declined from 2024 to 2025, and continue to decline in 2026.

“While we won’t draw premature conclusions before the year is complete, the direction is encouraging,” Johnson said, “and reinforces the need to continue strengthening training and accountability.”

Training Underway

Johnson claimed SPD and other city workers have an obligation to protect their officers, residents, and visitors. He said city managers and SPD has developed a “comprehensive corrective action plan” following the Drayton St. crash.

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Mandatory refresher training was assigned following the crash, with an emphasis on safety approaching intersections, according to Johnson. Police were advised to exercise “due regard” even when emergency lights and sirens are activated.

“Our goal is clear, the numbers are not acceptable,” Johnson said, “we want fewer, preventable collisions.”

Johnson stated officers involved in preventable or recurring collisions will be assigned targeted training and driving simulations. All of SPD will undergo annual risk management training as well.

“We will also use the lessons learned from these incidents to strengthen peer accountability and reinforce safe driving practices throughout our department,” said Mayor Johnson.

A monthly vehicle crash review board led by precinct commanders has been created to monitor crashes. Police said they will use a Geotab vehicle monitoring system that will identify unsafe driving procedures. Johnson stated the plan also includes defensive driving courses and emergency vehicle training.

Major Johnson acknowledged that officers spend most of their working day in patrol cars and often face challenging conditions. He stated that the department will do better, emphasizing that he wants SPD officers to perform their duties as quickly and safely as possible.