A suspected gunman and a police officer lost their lives on Friday during a shooting near the adjoining campuses of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Emory University in Atlanta. Authorities said the exchange of gunfire rattled the area but confirmed that no civilians were hurt in the attack.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said multiple gunshots struck buildings on the CDC’s large campus. According to the Associated Press, the fallen officer “received gunfire” during the incident. DeKalb County Police Chief Gregory Padrick told reporters that the officer was critically wounded at the scene and rushed to a hospital, but did not survive.
CDC employees shared photos showing several building windows damaged by bullets. An anonymous law enforcement official said the gunman carried a long gun, and police found three more firearms at the site. The suspect was located on the second floor of a building across from the CDC and died there.
Police also investigated a white car with an open trunk parked at the scene. Schierbaum said the vehicle was part of the crime scene but could not confirm if it belonged to the suspect. The cause of the gunman’s death is still under review. “We do not know at this time whether that was from officers or if it was self-inflicted,” Schierbaum explained.
Authorities searched the area and confirmed that the public was no longer in danger. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said investigators have yet to determine the shooter’s motive, as the probe is in its “preliminary stages.”
Nearby deli staff reported hearing rapid gunfire. “It sounded like fireworks going off, one right after the other,” said Brandy Giraldo, chief operating officer of The General Muir restaurant.
Emory University later lifted its shelter-in-place order but urged people to stay away from the area.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp praised the bravery of law enforcement. “Twice this week, deranged criminals have targeted innocent Georgians,” Kemp said, referring also to the recent Fort Stewart shooting. “Each time, brave first responders rushed toward the danger to subdue the shooter and save lives.”
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also reacted to the news, saying, “We’re horrified by the news out of Emory University and praying for the safety of the entire campus community.
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