ATLANTA — A deadly shooting Friday afternoon at a CVS in the Emory Point complex, directly across from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), left a DeKalb County police officer and the suspected gunman dead. The exchange of gunfire struck multiple CDC buildings and triggered lockdowns at the CDC, Emory University, Emory University Hospital, and nearby schools and daycare facilities.
The Incident
Authorities say the violence began around 4:50 p.m. when the shooter, armed with a long gun, entered the CVS at 1600 Clifton Road and began firing. The suspect’s gunfire shattered windows at several CDC buildings, though no CDC staff were physically harmed.
Officers from DeKalb County, Atlanta Police, Emory University Police, and other agencies responded within minutes. The shooter was located on the second floor of the CVS, where a gunfight ensued. Officer David Rose, 33, was struck and later died at a nearby hospital. The suspect also died at the scene. Authorities recovered multiple firearms.
Lockdowns and Evacuations
The incident prompted immediate shelter-in-place orders for the CDC campus, Emory University, and surrounding facilities. Ninety-two children at the CDC’s daycare were placed in lockdown for hours before being evacuated and reunited with their families under police supervision at a designated site on Starvine Way.
Nearby hospitals, including Emory University Hospital, also entered lockdown. Staff and visitors reported hearing gunfire and sirens, with some remaining barricaded for over an hour until the all-clear was given at 6:30 p.m.
Eyewitness Accounts
Parents described tense hours waiting for updates. "It’s terrifying," said Joel Miller, whose 5-year-old son was inside the daycare. "Very few things can keep me awake at night. This would be one, top of the list. The police have been great, and the school kept us informed every 15 to 20 minutes."
Emory student Vyas, who was near the scene, recalled hearing rapid gunfire. "It wasn’t just quick and over, it went on," he said.
Community Response
CDC Director Susan Monarez confirmed that four CDC buildings were hit by gunfire and praised first responders. Emory University expressed gratitude to law enforcement and offered counseling services to students and staff.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and local officials issued statements mourning Officer Rose and honoring the law enforcement response. "He was committed to serving the community," said Interim DeKalb Police Chief Greg Padrick. "Our hearts are with his loved ones and the entire DeKalb County Police Department family."
Ongoing Investigation
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading the case with assistance from the FBI. Investigators have not yet determined the shooter’s motive, and officials declined to confirm whether the CDC was intentionally targeted. Multiple firearms were recovered, and no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
The tragedy marks the second time in a week that Georgia officials have faced a deadly public shooting. Leaders have urged vigilance, community support for law enforcement, and patience as investigators continue their work.
"Today is a very dark day in DeKalb County," said County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. "There is a wife without a husband, and three children, one unborn, without a father. These are individuals who run toward danger when we have the ability to run away."