Senators Ben Watson and Derek Mallow issued a joint statement following a shooting at Fort Stewart Military Base on August 6, 2025. The incident led to the base being placed on lockdown around 11 a.m., with casualties reported. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Savannah office is working with the Army Criminal Investigation Division as part of the ongoing response.
“Today’s shooting at Fort Stewart is heartbreaking for Coastal Georgia, military members and their families. Our state and its citizens have always been united in supporting public safety and our military, and that unity remains unwavering. This is a heavy day for the Fort Stewart community, and we ask that all Georgians keep the victims, families and all who wear the uniform in their prayers.
We thank every local and state law enforcement member who quickly secured the base and neutralized a dangerous situation. We will remain in contact with local, state and federal officials as Coastal Georgia responds to this tragic event,” Watson and Mallow said in their statement.
Both senators represent districts that include parts of Chatham County. Senator Watson serves as Chairman for the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, while Senator Mallow is Chief Deputy Whip for the Senate Democratic Caucus.



