Georgia cop killed near Emory University, CDC HQ hailed as dedicated officer who leaves behind pregnant wife, 3 kids
The DeKalb County cop, whose identity has not been released, was shot when the assailant stormed into a CVS on the Emory University campus in Atlanta around 4:50 p.m. and unleashed a barrage of bullets at nearby CDC buildings.
The heroic officer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was surrounded by his family as he succumbed to his injuries.
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'It is with profound sadness that we announced the loss of the life of one of our very own DeKalb County police officers,' Interim Chief of Police Greg Padrick told reporters Friday night.
'This officer responded to the call as he was trained to do and during that incident, he received gunfire and he lost his life in this incident.'
Padrick added the fallen officer was committed to serving his community, and gave his life with the dedication to serving others.
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'This evening, there is a wife without a husband,' DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson told reporters Friday night.
'There are three children, one unborn, without a father. There is a mother and a father, as well as siblings who also share in this traumatic loss. Let's join together to give this family the support it needs during this traumatic loss.'
Authorities confirmed that no other civilians were injured in his hooting and there is no longer an active threat.
The gunman also died after being struck by gunfire, though police are unsure if his fatal wound was self-inflicted.
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Law enforcement sources told CNN the shooter likely targeted the CDC after he became sick with an apparent illness he blamed on the COVID-19 vaccine, according to police interviews with the suspect's family.
Emory University issued an urgent alert shortly after 5 p.m., reporting an active shooter near the Emory Point CVS on campus and urging all students to 'RUN' and 'HIDE.'
Local, state and federal officers swarmed the harrowing scene, with chilling photos shared on social media showing bullet holes piercing the windows of the CDC's building, located right next to the University.
Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said the alleged shooter sprayed multiple rounds at law enforcement and the health agency, which also houses a daycare caring for 92 children, all of whom were unharmed.
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'We wanted to come give you this message that all the children are safe and that we will be making sure that you get reunited with them as soon as possible,' Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said at a news conference.
'I'm a parent as well. I know your uncertainty and your fear and concern has been high.'
One police cruiser at the scene also appeared to have been hit by about a dozen gunshots to its windshield and hood.
The CDC Atlanta campus was on lockdown following the shooting.
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