Atlanta, August 8, 2025 – A devastating tragedy unfolded late Friday afternoon near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Emory University, as DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose was fatally shot while confronting a suspected gunman who opened fire in the area.
Incident Unfolds
At approximately 4:50 p.m., reports of an active shooter near 1600 Clifton Avenue triggered an immediate lockdown across both the CDC and Emory University campuses, with a shelter-in-place alert issued to students and staff.
Officer Rose, a 33-year-old DeKalb County officer and Marine Corps veteran who joined the force in September 2024, responded swiftly to the scene. He was tragically shot during the incident and later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Gunman’s Rampage and Response
The assailant fired multiple rounds at CDC buildings, shattering windows and causing widespread alarm. Remarkably, no CDC employees or children were injured, including the 92 children present at a daycare center on the CDC campus.
Police located the shooter on the second floor of a nearby CVS Pharmacy and discovered him dead. Investigators remain uncertain whether the fatal wound was self-inflicted or the result of police action.
Investigations and Official Reactions
Multiple agencies—including the Atlanta Police Department, FBI, and Georgia Bureau of Investigation—are collaborating on the investigation.
Governor Brian Kemp lauded the bravery of first responders and referenced another shooting earlier in the week at Fort Stewart, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance in the face of mounting violence. Likewise, Mayor Andre Dickens expressed sorrow and appreciation for the swift law enforcement response that likely prevented further casualties.
Remembering Officer David Rose
Officer Rose is remembered as a dedicated public servant—hardworking, courageous, and deeply committed. DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson described his loss as a “dark day” for the community, emphasizing his sacrifice and the devastating impact on his family. Rose leaves behind a pregnant wife and two young children.
Community Impact and Response
Gripped by fear and confusion, people in the area—including patrons at a nearby restaurant—hunkered down as the shooting unraveled. Many parents anxiously sought their children from the daycare center, only to be later reunited amid relief and gratitude.
In the aftermath, CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez issued a heartfelt statement describing the event as an “attack on our Roybal Campus.” She underscored the agency’s commitment to safety and announced a remote workday for Monday to enable a thorough security assessment.
Friday’s events stand as a solemn reminder of the courage exhibited by law enforcement and the fragility of public safety. Officer David Rose’s ultimate sacrifice is a vivid testament to the risks first responders face daily. As the investigation continues, officials and the community alike are grappling with the grief of a life lost too soon—and the urgent need to support those who protect us.
