Atlanta Gunman Killed After Shooting Near Emory University, CDC Headquarters
Emory Point, situated next to both Emory University and the CDC’s main campus, has been placed under heightened security.
Atlanta’s Emory University issued an emergency alert on Friday after reports of an active shooter on campus, according to the Associated Press. Students and staff were instructed to “RUN, HIDE, FIGHT” and stay away from the area immediately as police responded to the threat.
The situation escalated rapidly, but following a fatal exchange of gunfire, police managed to neutralise the suspect, who was discovered with a gunshot wound. Authorities confirmed that the suspect died at the spot.
The incident occurred near 1760 Clifton Road, close to key facilities including Emory University and the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Early speculation suggested that the CDC might have been the intended target.
A law enforcement official told CNN that the suspect’s family had shared some background after the incident. Preliminary indications suggested the gunman may have been suffering from an illness and believed the COVID-19 vaccine was to blame. However, authorities have not confirmed any definite motive, and investigations are still underway.
Immediately after the shooting, Emory University’s campus was placed under lockdown. In a post on X, the Atlanta Police Department confirmed reports of the gunman’s presence in the Clifton Road area. The lockdown was lifted once police declared the location safe, but the public has been urged to avoid the vicinity while inquiries continue.
Tragically, at least one police officer sustained injuries during the initial confrontation and was later declared dead. His identity has not yet been disclosed.
Nearby establishments acted swiftly. Staff at a deli near the campus secured their premises and took shelter. Brandy Giraldo, Chief Operating Officer of General Muir, said employees heard multiple loud bangs. “It sounded like fireworks going off, one after another,” she remarked.
In response to the active shooter threat, the Georgia Department of Transportation temporarily closed Clifton Road NE between Briarcliff Road NE and Haygood Drive, advising the public to steer clear of the area.
The FBI’s Atlanta division confirmed it was assisting with the probe. “FBI Atlanta is aware of the incident on Clifton Road in DeKalb County and is en route and coordinating with local partners for any required assistance,” the agency said in a statement.
Following the attack, Emory Point, located next to both Emory University and the CDC’s main campus, was placed under reinforced security measures.
