In a devastating turn of events, Officer David Rose of the Atlanta Police Department has died following injuries sustained in a shooting near the headquarters of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The incident unfolded on Friday close to Emory University, where police reported a "single shooter" who is now deceased.
Authorities confirmed that Officer Rose was taken to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries while thankfully, no civilians were harmed during this tragic event. The motives driving the shooter remain unclear; however, media outlets have referenced an unconfirmed theory suggesting that the assailant believed he was suffering adverse effects from a coronavirus vaccine. Reports also indicate that the shooter’s father had contacted the police prior to the incident, expressing concerns over his son's mental health and potential suicidal ideation.
CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed her sorrow over the incident, stating, "We are heartbroken by the attack." She commended the quick response from DeKalb County police, CDC security, and Emory University, acknowledging their efforts in preventing further harm to the community and staff.
During a press briefing, law enforcement mentioned that they received reports of an active shooter at approximately 4:50 PM local time. Responding officers from various agencies arrived promptly on the scene, and Emory University had issued a cautionary message via social media urging individuals on campus to "RUN, HIDE, FIGHT." Gunfire was reported to have struck multiple buildings within the CDC campus.
The circumstances surrounding the death of the shooter remain unclear, as police investigators have noted that he was found with gunshot wounds but could not definitively identify whether these were inflicted by law enforcement officers or self-inflicted. As a precautionary measure following the incident, CDC employees have been instructed to work remotely on Monday, further highlighting the impact this tragic event has had on the community.
