Gunfire Activity and Investigations Ongoing in Hinesville: Police Make Progress Amid Community Turmoil

Gunfire Activity and Investigations Ongoing in Hinesville: Police Make Progress Amid Community Turmoil

HINESVILLE, GA — The Hinesville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) continues to make critical strides in a sweeping investigation into a troubling surge of gunfire-related incidents that have shaken multiple neighborhoods throughout the city. Over recent months, the city has seen a rise in shootings—many of them connected—and while much of the community may not realize the depth and frequency of these violent events, those living in the affected areas have felt the repercussions in their daily lives.

Thanks to the tireless work of the men and women in CID, along with strong collaboration from federal agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), numerous arrests have been made, stolen firearms recovered, and investigative leads developed that point to a deeper network of criminal activity.

A Coordinated Law Enforcement Response

The Criminal Investigations Division, often working behind the scenes and putting in long hours, has shown exceptional dedication to the safety and well-being of the Hinesville community. Their efforts—driven by professionalism, tactical skill, and deep investigative experience—have led to substantial developments in a still-active and evolving case.

The department extends deep gratitude to these officers and detectives, whose perseverance has begun to turn the tide against the recent rise in violence.

Neighborhood Impact: Communities Reeling

Several neighborhoods have been deeply affected by this surge in gun-related crimes. Some communities have seen repeated incidents, while others have been shocked by sudden outbursts of violence. Here are highlights from key areas:

•Forest Lake: Once a quiet community, Forest Lake has seen multiple homes struck by gunfire in recent months. Four suspects—two adults and two juveniles—have been arrested. A search warrant executed in the area led to the recovery of a stolen firearm and additional charges.

•Honey Ridge: In another alarming case, a residence in Honey Ridge was struck by gunfire. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the shooting, and police have indicated that further charges are likely as evidence is processed.

•Sequoia Circle: A shooting in this neighborhood left one adult wounded. Although no arrests have been made yet, investigators confirm that the location is linked to individuals already known to law enforcement. Leads continue to develop.

•Meloney Drive: A home was damaged in a drive-by shooting. While no suspects are in custody, forensic analysis is ongoing, and investigators are hopeful that a separate firearm seizure may help link suspects to the crime.

•Eagle Apartments: Perhaps one of the most disturbing incidents took place here, where multiple vehicles and structures were damaged by gunfire during a single episode of violence. The area has a history of gun and drug-related activity and remains under close surveillance. This shooting is believed to be part of a larger pattern of connected incidents.

Burglary & Firearm Recovery: A Critical Breakthrough

A major turning point came with the investigation of the Aim Center Mass burglary, where fourteen firearms were stolen in a high-profile break-in. In an aggressive, coordinated effort between HPD and the ATF, nine of those weapons have already been recovered.

Over the course of six days, detectives and officers executed numerous search warrants across the city, leading to multiple arrests and the disruption of illegal trafficking networks. The investigation is far from over, but this operation represents a significant success in stemming the flow of stolen weapons into the community.

Citywide Recoveries and Public Involvement

To date, over 30 firearms have been recovered throughout Hinesville during ongoing operations. Many of these were discovered during drug-related arrests; several were identified as stolen weapons, while others are still undergoing ATF tracing procedures to determine their origins and connections to local crimes.

While the department is making real progress, law enforcement leaders emphasize that the investigation is far from complete. The interconnected nature of these incidents, involving known offenders and ongoing disputes, poses a complex and persistent threat.

A Community Partnership

The Hinesville Police Department also took a moment to recognize and thank the public for its role in these efforts. The courage of community members who have stepped forward with information—sometimes anonymously, often under difficult and dangerous circumstances—has been pivotal.

“Community safety is not something we can achieve on our own,” said Chief Lloyd Slater. “We depend on our citizens to be our eyes and ears. Every tip, every bit of information, is valuable. We know it’s not always easy to come forward, but your trust in us and your willingness to help have already made a difference.”

Moving Forward: Commitment to Justice and Safety

Despite the challenges, the Hinesville Police Department remains unwavering in its mission to bring peace back to the affected neighborhoods and ensure that those responsible for this wave of violence are held accountable.

The Criminal Investigations Division continues to pursue all leads, expand collaboration with partner agencies, and engage with the community to push forward in what remains a high-stakes and evolving situation.

Residents with any information related to these incidents are urged to contact the Hinesville Police Department or leave anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers. Every voice matters in restoring safety, dignity, and peace to the streets of Hinesville.

— Hinesville Police Department