Savannah Police Fatally Shoot Homeless Man on River Street

Mayor raises concerns over gun access and police use of force in the incident.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:23pm

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Savannah police shot and killed a 27-year-old homeless man, Mark Whibbey, on River Street after he allegedly refused commands to drop a gun. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the incident, and Savannah Mayor Van Johnson has expressed concerns about gun availability and access, as well as the police's use of deadly force.

Why it matters

This incident has raised questions about gun access, particularly for those with mental health issues, as well as the appropriate use of force by police. It highlights ongoing challenges around public safety and the complex issues of homelessness, mental health, and gun violence in Savannah.

The details

According to police, officers encountered Whibbey on River Street and repeatedly told him to drop his gun. Whibbey allegedly refused and reached into his back pocket, prompting the officers to use deadly force. Nearby business owners said Whibbey may have been struggling with mental health issues. Mayor Johnson expressed concerns about the availability of guns in the community, including firearms left unsecured in vehicles, and how Whibbey was able to obtain a gun so soon after being released from jail.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday on River Street in Savannah, Georgia.
  • Whibbey had been released from the Chatham County Jail just one day before the shooting.

The players

Mark Whibbey

A 27-year-old homeless man who was fatally shot by Savannah police on River Street.

Mayor Van Johnson

The mayor of Savannah, who has expressed concerns about gun access and the police's use of force in this incident.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation

The lead agency investigating the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“The availability of guns in this community is my continuing concern. And if he had mental health issues, how he was able to obtain a gun — that's a concern.”

— Mayor Van Johnson

“I'm sorry that your loved one lost his life.”

— Mayor Van Johnson

What’s next

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is continuing its investigation into the shooting, and the findings will help determine whether the officers' use of force was justified.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex and ongoing challenges around gun access, mental health, and the appropriate use of force by police in Savannah. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address these issues and improve public safety in the community.