A tragic incident unfolded outside the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, resulting in the death of a police officer who sustained serious injuries while responding to a shooting. The event occurred on Friday, close to Emory University, where a single shooter was involved.
According to the Atlanta police department, the officer, identified as David Rose, was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. Fortunately, no civilians were reported injured during the incident.
Investigation into the shooter’s motives
While the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, US media outlets have reported that, according to an unnamed law enforcement official, there is a theory suggesting that the gunman believed he was suffering from an illness due to a coronavirus vaccine.
Further reports indicated that the shooter’s father had contacted law enforcement on the day of the incident, expressing concerns that his son might be suicidal.
Responses from officials and law enforcement
CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed the organization’s deep sorrow regarding the attack, stating, “DeKalb County police, CDC security, and Emory University responded immediately and decisively, helping to prevent further harm to our staff and community.”
During a press briefing on Friday, police reported that they received information about an active shooter around 4:50 PM local time (9:50 PM BST) near the CDC campus. Officers from various agencies were dispatched to the scene. Emory University also issued a warning via social media, advising individuals on the Atlanta campus to “RUN, HIDE, FIGHT” in response to the active shooter situation.
The gunfire reportedly struck multiple buildings on the CDC campus. Authorities later discovered the shooter had sustained injuries, but it remains unclear whether these were inflicted by law enforcement or were self-inflicted.
In the aftermath of the shooting, reports indicate that CDC employees have been instructed to work remotely on Monday as a precautionary measure.