Stephen Hasner | | June 13, 2024
SAVANNAH, Ga. – Savannah State University was the scene of a deadly confrontation Thursday evening, which led to the death of student Christopher Starks. The 22-year-old junior, hailing from the Atlanta area, succumbed to gunshot wounds after an altercation at the institution’s student union. The circumstances that sparked the violence are still being investigated.
Following the incident, a stringent campus lockdown was put in place, later being lifted at approximately midnight, according to Loretta Heyward, a university spokeswoman. Despite the ongoing inquiry into the tragic event, officials have yet to make any arrests.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead on this case, receiving collaborative support from the university’s campus police. Authorities have mentioned that the shooting seems to be an isolated incident. As of Friday morning, they have yet to identify the shooter.
In response to the turmoil and loss, university administrators have postponed classes to start at 10 a.m. on Friday, with grief counseling services being offered to students and staff on campus to help them cope with the recent events.
In an act of solidarity and remembrance, a prayer vigil was held on Friday afternoon at the Felix-Alexis Circle Unity Plot, organized via the university’s social media channels. The demonstration of unity comes at a time when the campus community is questioning the security measures in place and seeking comfort in the wake of the violence.
Source: Statesboro Herald