A DeKalb County police officer has died after responding to a violent incident near the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
Fox News reported that Officer David Rose, responding to a gunman near the CDC, was shot and killed; the gunman was also killed, with investigations ongoing.
Officer David Rose, aged 33, was fatally shot during his response to a gunman near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters on Saturday.
The incident prompted a significant emergency response and led to a shelter-in-place order for Emory University, impacting the university community.
The violent events began when the unidentified shooter opened fire outside the CDC campus, marking the start of a chaotic situation that unfolded rapidly. Officer Rose was swiftly transported to Emory University Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Rose's dedication to the DeKalb County Police Department began just last September, leaving behind a pregnant wife and two young children.
Additional gunfire was reported at a CVS pharmacy nearby, where the gunman was later discovered with a gunshot wound. Law enforcement has yet to determine whether this wound was self-inflicted or a result of police gunfire.
The investigation is being led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Atlanta office.
Interim Police Chief Greg Padrick expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Officer Rose.
He was committed to serving the community. At this time we're asking for the community’s prayers for his family, his friends, his loved ones, and the entire DeKalb County Police Department family.
Governor Brian Kemp acknowledged the tragedy, emphasizing the lasting impact of Officer Rose's service in Georgia. The governor noted that Rose's memory "will not be forgotten" by the state, expressing condolences to the Rose family and the DeKalb County Police Department.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commended the law enforcement agencies that responded to the crisis. He highlighted the bravery of officers from various jurisdictions who confronted the uncertain and dangerous situation. Schierbaum's remarks underscored the collaborative spirit among law enforcement during emergencies.
During the incident, the shooter targeted multiple locations, including at least four CDC buildings. Susan Monarez, Director of the CDC, commented on the events, referencing the risks faced by law enforcement and noting another officer was injured alongside Officer Rose.
U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock responded to the news by offering condolences to Officer Rose's family and acknowledging the efforts of Atlanta's law enforcement community.
The senator highlighted how their decisive actions during the crisis potentially saved numerous lives.
As the Georgia Bureau of Investigations leads the inquiry, various agencies continue to work together to piece together the sequence and motives behind the shootings. The collaboration aims to provide clarity on the origins and actions of the assailant.
The Atlanta community, including those connected with Emory University and the CDC, continue to process the events as they unfold.
As the investigation deepens, the regional and national responses converge on supporting the victims and their families while honoring the fallen officer's commitment to service.
