DeKalb County, Georgia, mourns the loss of Officer David Rose, who was tragically killed in the line of duty during an active shooter situation near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Emory University’s Atlanta campus on Friday.
What Happened
On Friday, during an active shooter situation near the CDC and Emory University’s Atlanta campus, Officer David Rose, 33, was fatally shot. The shooting occurred around 4:50 p.m. near the 1600 block of Clifton Road, not far from the CDC’s headquarters and the Emory Point CVS. Officer Rose was the first to respond to the scene and was met with gunfire as he encountered the suspect outside the CDC headquarters. The suspect, a single shooter, was found dead on the second floor of the nearby CVS, although it remains unclear whether the suspect died from self-inflicted wounds or officer gunfire. Fortunately, no civilians were harmed during the incident.
Who Was Officer David Rose
Officer David Rose, a 33-year-old DeKalb Police officer, began his service with the DeKalb Police Department in September 2024. He had recently graduated from the police academy and was working at the North Central precinct. Despite being relatively new to the force, Officer Rose displayed immense courage and commitment to serving his community. Tragically, he lost his life while responding to the call as he was trained to do. He is survived by his wife, two children, and an unborn child. His death has left the community and his colleagues devastated.
Background or Timeline
The tragic events unfolded on the afternoon of Friday, August 8, 2025, when the DeKalb Police responded to an active shooter report around 4:50 p.m. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including Atlanta Police, quickly arrived at the scene. The shooter was located inside the Emory Point CVS, where they were found dead. Officer Rose, who had been the first to arrive, was shot during the confrontation, leading to his death. The DeKalb County Police Department has requested the public’s support through prayers for Officer Rose’s family and the entire department during this difficult time.
Public or Social Media Reaction
News of Officer Rose’s death has left both the DeKalb County community and law enforcement agencies heartbroken. Tributes have poured in from across the nation as officers, local residents, and community leaders share their condolences. The tragic loss has prompted an outpouring of support for Officer Rose’s family, especially his wife and children. Many have taken to social media to honor his sacrifice, with messages of solidarity and remembrance.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
DeKalb County’s interim Police Chief Greg Padrick and DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson addressed the public during a news conference, offering their condolences and sharing the immense loss felt by the department and the community. They also highlighted the difficult impact on Officer Rose’s family, particularly his wife, who was pregnant with their third child at the time of his death. The department is urging the community to keep the officer’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this heartbreaking time.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
