The DeKalb County Police Department has identified Officer David Rose, 33, as the hero who was tragically killed in the line of duty while responding to a shooting near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, on Friday.
Rose, who had joined the police department last September, was fatally shot while working to neutralize a gunman near the CDC campus.
The shooting prompted a shelter-in-place order at nearby Emory University.
The suspect, who has yet to be identified, was also killed during the confrontation.
Rushed to Emory University Hospital, Rose later succumbed to his injuries.
His death has left a void in the community, and he is survived by his pregnant wife and two children.
Interim Police Chief Greg Padrick expressed his sorrow and praised Rose’s dedication to his community.
“He was committed to serving the community,” Padrick said.
“At this time, we’re asking for the community’s prayers for his family, his friends, his loved ones, and the entire DeKalb County Police Department family.”
Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp joined in honoring Rose’s service, writing on social media:
“His service and memory will not be forgotten by a grateful state, and his loved ones and fellow @DeKalbCountyPD officers will remain in our hearts and prayers as they grieve his passing and this painful day.”
The tragic incident unfolded shortly before 5 p.m. when a gunman opened fire near the CDC campus.
As officers arrived at the scene, they found Rose critically wounded and heard further gunfire emanating from a nearby CVS pharmacy.
Upon entering the pharmacy, law enforcement found the suspect with at least one gunshot wound, though it remains unclear whether the wound was self-inflicted or caused by police return fire.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commended the heroic response from law enforcement: “When this community needed them, no one shirked from the danger. Every officer, from multiple districts, responded and immediately moved to end this threat.”
CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed her heartbreak over the loss of Officer Rose, acknowledging his sacrifice:
“A courageous local law enforcement officer gave their life, and another was injured, after a gunman opened fire on at least four CDC buildings.”
Federal and state officials, including U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA), also expressed their condolences and gratitude to the law enforcement officers involved.
Warnock said, “I am mourning the tragic death of the officer who was killed in the line of duty today, and I am praying for the officer’s family and friends.
“Atlanta law enforcement saved countless lives, and we are grateful for their service.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the incident, with assistance from the FBI’s Atlanta office.
This tragic event highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day while protecting their communities.
Officer David Rose’s sacrifice serves as a somber reminder of the unwavering dedication and courage of those who serve in law enforcement.
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