Fort Stewart Shooting Shakes Military Base

On August 6, 2025 at around 10:56 a.m. EDT, Fort Stewart—a major U.S. Army base near Hinesville, Georgia—experienced an active shooter situation in its 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team area. The suspect, an active-duty soldier, wounded five fellow soldiers before being subdued and arrested by coworkers and law enforcement.

The base lockdown began at about 11:04 a.m., and the suspect was taken into custody by 11:35 a.m. The overall lockdown was lifted shortly after 12:10 p.m. No fatalities occurred in the incident—all injured personnel are reportedly in stable condition, and most are expected to fully recover.

Timeline of Events

This rapid sequence underscores the swift response from both military personnel and emergency services.

Who Is the Suspect & Victim Status

Suspect: Sergeant Quornelius Radford

• Name: Sgt. Quornelius Radford, age 28

• Role: Automated logistics sergeant, assigned to the 2nd ABCT since 2022

• Background: No combat deployments; previously arrested for DUI in May 2025, which wasn't reported to his chain of command before the shooting.

• Weapon: Personal handgun—not standard-issue military firearm

• Action: Shot five coworkers at his work post; quickly tackled by fellow soldiers before law enforcement arrived 

• Legal Status: Holding in pretrial confinement; under investigation by Army Criminal Investigation Division and the FBI. Motive is still unclear.

Victims: Injured Soldiers

• Total Injured: 5 soldiers

• Injury Status: All stable; expected full recovery; three required surgery

• Medical Response: Treated onsite, transported to Winn Army Community Hospital; two transferred to Memorial Hospital in Savannah due to trauma care needs.

Aftermath and Wider Reactions

The incident sparked immediate local and national responses:

• Local Government: Georgia Governor Brian Kemp called it a “tragedy,” expressing support and prayers for victims and military families. The City of Hinesville’s Mayor Karl Riles issued condolences and affirmed support for Fort Stewart personnel and first responders.

• Federal Leadership:

  • The White House, via Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, confirmed President Donald Trump was briefed.

  • Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and other officials were also informed.

  • The President condemned the shooter and extended prayers to victims and their families.

• Military Response: Brigidier Gen. John Lubas praised the quick action of the soldiers who subdued the gunman, saying their response likely prevented additional casualties. The Army is now reviewing security and firearm policies, especially regarding personal weapons on base.

Key Takeaways 

1. Security Breach at a High-Security Base

• Personal weapon somehow made it onto the installation despite strict security protocols.

2. Zero Fatalities, Quick Military Response

• Fellow soldiers and law enforcement acted decisively—subduing the suspect within minutes.

3. Injured But Stable

• Five injured soldiers remain stable; three required surgeries; all expected to recover.

4. Policy Under Scrutiny

• Renewed debate over whether stricter rules on personal firearms on military bases are needed.

5. Community & Leadership Mobilized

• Solidarity from local government and nationwide leadership underscored support for those affected.

Final Thoughts

What happened at Fort Stewart today is a tragic reminder that even within one of the most secure military installations, threats can emerge from within. But it’s also a story of courage, discipline, and fast response. While the community mourns and recovers, efforts are already underway to ensure such an incident never happens again.