Georgia Man Shot by Police After Pointing Cellphone

Savannah officers fired on 23-year-old Malik Hendrix after he refused orders to show his hands.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Savannah police shot and injured a 23-year-old man on Saturday afternoon after he allegedly pointed what turned out to be a cellphone at officers responding to a domestic dispute call. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is reviewing the incident.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about police use of force and the risks of mistaking everyday objects for weapons, especially in high-stress situations involving domestic disputes. It also highlights the need for continued training and protocols around de-escalation tactics.

The details

According to police, officers were called to an apartment on Emerald Drive for a reported domestic dispute. When they arrived, they confirmed an argument had occurred between Malik Hendrix and a woman. Witnesses also alleged a child had been thrown into a dumpster during the dispute. After the woman provided a description of Hendrix, officers searched the area but initially could not locate him. Hendrix later approached the officers, with his right hand concealed in his jacket. When Hendrix removed his hand and pointed what was later determined to be a cellphone at the officers, three of them fired their weapons, striking him multiple times.

  • The incident occurred around 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2026.
  • Hendrix was transported to a hospital, but his current condition has not been released.

The players

Malik Hendrix

A 23-year-old man who was shot by Savannah police after allegedly pointing a cellphone at officers during a domestic dispute call.

Savannah Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the domestic dispute call and was involved in the shooting incident.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation

The state agency conducting an independent review of the officer-involved shooting, which is standard procedure.

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What’s next

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation will continue its independent review of the incident to determine if the officers' use of force was justified.

The takeaway

This shooting highlights the need for continued training and protocols around de-escalation tactics, as well as the risks of mistaking everyday objects for weapons in high-stress situations involving potential domestic violence.