Fort Stewart, GA – A 28-year-old U.S. Army soldier, Sgt. Quornelius Radford, has been identified as the suspect in an active shooter incident at Fort Stewart, a major U.S. Army base located southwest of Savannah, Georgia. The shooting occurred on Wednesday, August 5, 2025, within the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (2nd ABCT) complex, resulting in five soldiers being injured, including some who required surgery. Fortunately, all are currently in stable condition and are expected to survive.
The shooting unfolded at approximately 10:56 a.m. when authorities received reports of gunfire. Sgt. Radford was apprehended without further incident by 11:35 a.m., and military personnel quickly secured the area. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding the safety protocols within military installations, prompting further investigation into Radford’s motives and actions.
Details of the Shooting and Victims’ Conditions
Military officials confirmed that Sgt. Radford used a personally owned handgun, not a military-issued weapon, in the attack. This detail has sparked further inquiries into how he was able to bring the firearm onto the installation.
The five victims, all soldiers from Radford’s unit, were initially treated on-site before being transported to Winn Army Community Hospital for further care. Some of the soldiers were later transferred to Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, which serves as the region’s primary trauma facility. Three of the five injured soldiers required surgery, but all are in stable condition and are expected to recover.
The names of the victims have not been released pending notifications to their families. Military authorities have expressed their commitment to respecting the privacy of the injured soldiers and their loved ones during this difficult time.
Suspect’s Background and Arrest
Sgt. Quornelius Radford, an automated logistics sergeant assigned to the 2nd ABCT, had no history of extremist affiliations, according to military officials. He had not been deployed to combat, and there is no indication that the shooting was related to terrorism.
However, Radford did have a prior arrest in May 2025 for driving under the influence (DUI). Details regarding any subsequent disciplinary actions related to that arrest have not been disclosed, leaving many questioning whether the incident may have contributed to his actions.
Radford’s arrest was swift, and authorities have emphasized that the situation was contained by military police, who acted decisively to prevent further harm. Military leadership has assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the installation.
Investigation and Security Concerns
The investigation into the shooting is being led by military authorities, with the FBI joining the efforts to process the scene and interview witnesses. Military officials are working to understand the motive behind Radford’s actions, but they have refrained from speculating at this time.
In response to the incident, Fort Stewart officials placed the 2nd ABCT complex on lockdown, while the main cantonment area was reopened to personnel shortly after noon. This lock down was a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all personnel as the investigation unfolded.
Military leadership has called for patience as they continue to gather information, stressing the need for a thorough investigation before making conclusions about the event.
“We ask the public and media to allow law enforcement and military authorities the time they need to conduct a complete inquiry,” stated a military spokesperson. “This is an active investigation, and we will provide updates as new information becomes available.”
Reaction from Officials and Community
The shooting at Fort Stewart, one of the largest military installations in the country, has raised concerns about security and the mental well-being of service members. In the wake of the attack, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his condolences for the victims and their families.
“We are keeping the victims, their families, and all those who serve our nation in our hearts and prayers,” Governor Kemp said in a statement.
The incident echoes concerns raised by past tragedies, such as the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, in which 13 people were killed and more than 30 were injured by an Army psychiatrist. The Fort Stewart shooting has intensified discussions on ensuring that military personnel have the necessary support systems in place to manage stress and emotional well-being.
Impact on Fort Stewart and Military Protocols
As Fort Stewart remains one of the largest and most secure U.S. Army installations on the East Coast, the shooting has brought attention to the security measures in place at military facilities. Despite its size and strategic importance, Fort Stewart has now become the site of a critical investigation into how such a violent act could occur within its confines.
Officials have emphasized that the incident will prompt a review of security protocols and mental health services for military personnel. The U.S. Army has committed to ensuring that all personnel have access to adequate resources for dealing with personal and emotional difficulties, with the goal of preventing future tragedies.
Further Updates Expected
As the investigation into the Fort Stewart shooting continues, more details will likely emerge regarding the motive behind Sgt. Radford’s actions, as well as the circumstances leading up to the attack. Law enforcement officials are committed to providing a transparent account of what transpired, and the public can expect updates as soon as new information is available.
In the meantime, Fort Stewart remains under heightened security, with officials continuing to assess the situation and provide support for the soldiers and their families.