Georgia Lawmaker Responds to Tragic Shooting at Fort Stewart

House Majority Whip James Burchett issued a statement Monday afternoon following a shooting earlier that day at Fort Stewart, one of Georgia’s most significant military installations. The incident left five soldiers wounded and prompted a swift response from base personnel and law enforcement.

“I hope you’ll join Misty and I in praying today for the Fort Stewart community and all those who were wounded in today’s tragic shooting,” said Burchett. “I am grateful this afternoon for the swift action of law enforcement, who have apprehended the shooter and ended the immediate threat to public safety, and I know as Georgians we will all rally around the military families who were impacted today.”

The injured soldiers were initially treated on-site and then transported to Winn Army Community Hospital, according to officials at Fort Stewart, as reported by Fox News. The shooting took place in the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) area of the base.

Fox News identified the suspect as U.S. Army Sergeant Quornelius Radford, a 28-year-old automated logistics sergeant assigned to the ABCT. Radford, who is from Jacksonville, Florida, joined the regular Army in January 2018 as an Automated Logistical Specialist. Officials confirmed that he has never been deployed.

The shooting occurred during the morning hours of August 6 and took place at Radford’s workplace. He is alleged to have used a personal weapon in the attack. Fox News also reported that fellow soldiers intervened to help subdue the shooter before he was taken into custody. Radford is currently in pre-trial confinement.

Fort Stewart, located in southeast Georgia, is home to the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division and is a critical component of the region’s economy and the nation’s defense infrastructure. With thousands of active-duty soldiers and civilian personnel, any violent event on base has significant ripple effects across the community.

Burchett’s response to Wednesday’s tragedy reflected a broader sentiment across the state: grief for the wounded, gratitude for those who responded, and a call for unity. As the investigation continues, Georgians are being encouraged to support the Fort Stewart community during this time of recovery.