Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Atlanta Police Officer Near CDC Headquarters

A police shootout near the CDC in Atlanta resulted in the death of Officer David Rose, raising concerns over mental health and violence against law enforcement.

A police officer tragically lost his life while responding to a shooting incident outside the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta on Friday. The officer, identified as 33-year-old David Rose, sustained critical injuries and later died at the hospital. He leaves behind a family, including two young children and another child on the way.

The Atlanta police department confirmed that the incident involved a "single shooter," who also succumbed to injuries at the scene. The shooting unfolded near the CDC campus at an intersection close to Emory University, prompting immediate lockdown measures and responses from various law enforcement agencies.

Mayor of Atlanta reassured citizens that there were no reported injuries among civilians during the incident. However, it has emerged that the alleged shooter may have been experiencing a mental health crisis, with records indicating that he believed he was suffering from issues related to a COVID-19 vaccine. Reports suggest that the shooter’s father alerted authorities on the day of the incident, expressing concerns for his son’s well-being.

CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed dedication to the community, emphasizing the bravery of the officer who lost his life, stating, “A courageous local law enforcement officer gave his life, and another was injured, after a gunman opened fire on at least four CDC buildings.” Monarez commended the rapid response of law enforcement and security personnel in preventing further damage.

During a press statement given shortly after the shooting, police relayed that they were alerted to the active shooter at approximately 16:50 local time. Multiple law enforcement agencies swiftly responded to ensure safety on campus and in the surrounding areas. In the wake of the shooting, Emory University issued a warning to its community, advising them to “RUN, HIDE, FIGHT” as precautions against potential threats.

Authorities later found the shooter injured on the second floor of a CVS pharmacy situated at the site of the incident, although details surrounding his injuries—whether caused by law enforcement or self-inflicted—remain unclear. The shelter-in-place status for the CDC campus was lifted roughly an hour and a half after the event, and the police department confirmed that there was no longer an ongoing threat to the area.

In light of the tragedy, the CDC has requested its employees to work remotely on Monday as the investigation continues.