A tragic incident unfolded on August 8, 2025, when the Atlanta shooting near the CDC and Emory University claimed the life of a dedicated police officer and left the community in shock. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s campus and Emory University, highlighting the vulnerability even in prominent public health and academic centers.
The shooting began late Friday afternoon near 4:50 p.m. at 1600 Clifton Road, directly across from the CDC. Reports of an active shooter prompted immediate lockdowns at both the CDC’s Roybal campus and Emory University’s Atlanta campus. Authorities responded swiftly to the scene after 911 calls alerted them to gunfire.
DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose, aged 33, was one of the first to respond. Tragically, he was fatally shot during his courageous attempt to confront the shooter. Officer Rose had joined the department less than a year earlier and left behind a pregnant wife and two children. His sacrifice is deeply mourned by his family, the department, and the wider community.
The suspect was ultimately located on the second floor of a CVS Pharmacy nearby, where police encountered him amid exchanged gunfire. The shooter sustained fatal gunshot wounds, though officials have not confirmed whether these were self-inflicted or delivered by law enforcement. Authorities describe him as a known individual with possible personal motives, still under investigation.
Initial findings show multiple rounds were fired by the gunman, potentially targeting law enforcement and buildings within the CDC campus. At least four CDC buildings suffered damage from gunfire during the incident, raising concerns about the intentions behind the attack.
Governor Brian Kemp condemned the violence, underscoring that this marked the second shooting incident in Georgia within a week. He expressed gratitude to the first responders who courageously confronted the threat, urging the public to keep all those affected in their thoughts.
The Atlanta Police Department, alongside FBI and state investigators, continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have stated that no other suspects are currently involved, and no civilians were harmed during the exchange of gunfire. The CDC remains on high alert as investigations proceed, prioritizing the safety of employees and the campus community.
Mayor Andre Dickens stated at a news conference that the area daycare was safely secured and that children were reunited with their families shortly after the lockdown was lifted. Emory University’s alert system and emergency preparedness protocols played a crucial role in protecting students and staff during the crisis.
This heartbreaking event serves as a solemn reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the ongoing challenges posed by gun violence. The community continues to rally around the family of Officer Rose and all those touched by this tragedy.
As the investigation unfolds and more details emerge, we encourage our readers to stay informed and to share their thoughts or condolences. Your engagement helps keep the memory of those affected alive and promotes a community spirit focused on healing and resilience.
