Atlanta, August 8, 2025 – A devastating active shooter incident unfolded late Friday afternoon near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), resulting in the deaths of a DeKalb County police officer and the attacker. Authorities have since confirmed that the situation is contained.
Timeline of Events
Around 4:50 p.m., reports of gunfire emerged at 1600 Clifton Road, prompting Emory University to issue an emergency alert urging students and staff to “RUN, HIDE, FIGHT” and shelter in place
The gunman, described as wearing a surgical mask and carrying multiple weapons—including two handguns, a rifle, and a shotgun—opened fire on at least four CDC buildings.
The suspect then barricaded himself inside a CVS pharmacy adjacent to the CDC campus. Responding officers found him dead on the second floor; it remains unclear whether his fatal injury was self-inflicted or caused by police gunfire
The Cost of Courage
Officer David Rose, 33, a DeKalb County police officer, was critically wounded responding to the shooting and later died at the hospital. He is survived by his pregnant wife and two young children
The suspect’s father had reported his son as suicidal to law enforcement prior to the incident. Family members indicated the gunman believed he was ill and blamed COVID‑19 vaccines for his condition
Safety and Aftermath
Miraculously, no civilians were physically harmed during the shooting. All 92 children at the CDC daycare were safely reunited with their families. Some individuals sought medical treatment for stress or anxiety after the ordeal.
By 6:30 p.m., law enforcement declared the threat extinguished and began lifting lockdowns.
Responses from Authorities
CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed heartbreak, acknowledging the attack on federal facilities and praising first responders for their bravery.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp commended law enforcement, and urged the public to pray for the fallen officer and his family.
What Comes Next
The FBI and Georgia Bureau of Investigation are assisting local authorities in an ongoing investigation into motive and sequence of events. As the community begins to mourn and seek answers, officials emphasize both solidarity with the fallen officer’s family and a renewed commitment to safety across local institutions.
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