A police officer was killed while responding to gunfire near the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, leading to an ongoing investigation into the shooter’s motive.
At a Glance
- Officer David Rose, 33, was fatally shot while responding to a shooting near the CDC in Atlanta
- Incident occurred near Emory University, prompting a large police presence
- The gunman was found dead inside a CVS on Emory’s campus; cause of death under investigation
- Rose joined the department in September 2024 and graduated from the academy in March
- He leaves behind a wife, two children, and a third child expected
The Incident Near the CDC
On Friday, a man opened fire outside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s headquarters in Atlanta, triggering an urgent police response. The scene quickly drew officers from multiple agencies, given its proximity to the high-security federal facility and neighboring Emory University.
Responding to reports of gunfire, Officer David Rose of the DeKalb County Police Department arrived on the scene. The 33-year-old officer was struck during the confrontation and transported to Emory University Hospital. Despite emergency medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
Watch now: Shooting outside of CDC headquarters kills police officer · YouTube
The gunman was later discovered on the second floor of a CVS pharmacy located on Emory’s campus, directly across from the CDC. According to Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, the shooter died at the scene. Authorities have not confirmed whether the fatal injury was self-inflicted or the result of police gunfire.
Investigation and Motive
Law enforcement agencies are now piecing together the events that led to the attack. Officials have stated that no other individuals were injured and that the shooter’s motive remains unclear. Investigators are reviewing security footage, witness accounts, and ballistic evidence to determine what prompted the shooting.
The location of the incident—between a major university and a prominent federal health agency—has raised questions about potential targets or triggers, though authorities have not confirmed any intended focus. Until further information emerges, officials are urging the public to avoid speculation.
Remembering Officer David Rose
Officer Rose had been with the DeKalb County Police Department since September 2024, graduating from the police academy just five months earlier in March. Interim Police Chief Greg Patrick described him as someone “committed to serving the community” and praised his “courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication.”
Rose is survived by his wife, two young children, and a third child expected. The department has expressed condolences to his family and pledged full support in the days ahead. Local community leaders have also called for public recognition of his service and sacrifice.
Law enforcement agencies in Georgia are expected to hold a memorial service in the coming days, with attendance from officers across the state. The case remains active, with authorities awaiting further forensic and investigative results before releasing more details about the shooter or the exact sequence of events.
Sources
Newsweek
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fox 5 Atlanta


















