Armed Suspect Arrested in Savannah After Bicycle and Foot Pursuit
On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the Savannah Police Department arrested 18-year-old Joshua Watson following a tense pursuit and confrontation with officers that began at East Duffy and Jefferson Street. Watson was identified by officers as a suspect on bond for illegal possession of a firearm and a person of interest in a recent aggravated assault at Frazier Homes.
According to police, Watson failed to stop at a traffic control signal, prompting officers to initiate a traffic stop. Instead of complying, he fled first on a bicycle, weaving through streets, and later continued on foot. During the pursuit, officers observed that Watson was armed. He ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon and made movements suggesting he was reaching for it.
The pursuit concluded when Watson fell to the ground but continued resisting arrest. One officer drew a firearm to protect themselves and the public, while another officer drew a taser but did not deploy it due to the close proximity of the suspect. Watson was safely taken into custody, and a stolen firearm was recovered from his waistband. No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident.
Watson now faces multiple charges, including:
- Theft by receiving a stolen firearm
- Felony obstruction
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by a person under 21
- Failure to stop at a traffic control signal
Chief Lenny B. Gunther praised the officers for their professionalism. “SPD officers work diligently to keep Savannah safe and respond to threats with professionalism. In this case, the skill of the responding officers ensured no injuries to the suspect or the SPD Officers,” Gunther said.
The incident will undergo a formal use-of-force investigation in accordance with SPD policy to ensure all actions were appropriate. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Watson or the circumstances leading up to the pursuit to contact the Savannah Police Department.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of SPD officers to manage armed and potentially dangerous suspects while prioritizing public and officer safety.
