Savannah State University officials give ‘all clear’ after partial lockdown Thursday afternoon

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) [UPDATE 5:50 P.M.] - Georgia State Patrol has released its preliminary report of the incident that caused a partial lockdown at Savannah State University Thursday.

Around 9:55 a.m., a GSP trooper saw a black and gray motorcycle speeding near the intersection of Abercorn St. and White Bluff. The trooper began to approach the motorcycle, and noticed it did not have a license plate.

The trooper turned on his lights to pull over the motorcyclist. But the motorcyclist did not stop, and a pursuit was initiated according to GSP.

The chase continued through multiple streets until the suspect hit a curb on Jasmine Avenue. The suspect the ran away on foot and was not able to be caught due to thick brush in the area.

Additional law enforcement personnel and resources were called in for backup and assistance in search efforts.

Despite extensive search efforts, the suspect was not identified and has not been taken into custody.

[UPDATE 2:00 P.M.] Thunderbolt Police said they are searching for a suspect who fled following a traffic stop in an area neighboring the Town of Thunderbolt.

Law enforcement said the suspect was spotted swimming near Sylvan Island next to Thunderbolt around 2:00 p.m.

If you see anyone matching the suspect’s description, do not approach them. Instead, call 911 immediately and provide their location and direction of travel.

[UPDATE 1:32 p.m. at 6/25/2026] Savannah State University officials issued an “all clear” notification Thursday afternoon at 1:32 p.m.

Officials announced all normal business activities may resume.

GSP officials told WTOC the investigation is still active. Preliminary details show there was a brief motorcycle pursuit where the motorcyclist dismounted and fled. Officials say there is no believed danger to the public.

[ORIGNAL STORY] Savannah State is under a partial lockdown, according to the university’s public alert safety system.

“A partial lockdown is in effect at Savannah State University due to a vehicle pursuit involving Georgia State Patrol,” according to university officials.

Officials said the suspect abandoned a vehicle, ran away on foot and entered campus.

The suspect has not yet been located.

An increased law enforcement presence is set to remain on and around campus until further notice.

Officials described the suspect as a male with a slim build, gray hair, and a gray mustache and beard. He was last seen wearing a burgundy shirt with white writing and blue jeans, with no shoes.

University officials instructed people on or near campus to follow directions from university officials and law enforcement, avoid the affected area and monitor official university communications for updates.

Those in the impacted area were told to shelter in place until an “All Clear” notification is issued.

Stick with WTOC as this story develops.