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Emory Point, located adjacent to both Emory University and the CDC’s main campus, is under heightened security.
CDC HQ is reported to have come under gunfire during the incident
Atlanta-based Emory University issued an emergency alert on Friday following reports of an active shooter on campus, according to the Associated Press. Students and staff were urged to “RUN, HIDE, FIGHT” and avoid the area immediately as law enforcement responded to the threat.
The situation escalated quickly, but after a deadly exchange of gunfire, police were able to neutralise the suspect, who was found with a gunshot wound. Authorities confirmed the suspect died at the scene.
The incident unfolded near 1760 Clifton Road, a location close to several important facilities, including Emory University and the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Initial speculation suggested the CDC may have been the intended target.
A law enforcement officer told CNN that the suspect’s family had provided some background following the incident. Early indications suggest the shooter may have been suffering from an illness and believed that the COVID-19 vaccine was the cause. However, authorities have not confirmed a specific motive, and investigations remain ongoing.
In the immediate aftermath, Emory University’s campus was placed on lockdown. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Atlanta Police Department confirmed reports of the shooter’s presence near the Clifton Road area. The lockdown was lifted after police declared the area secure, but the public has been advised to avoid the vicinity while investigations continue.
Tragically, at least one police officer was injured during the initial confrontation, who was later declared dead. His identity has not yet been released.
Nearby businesses also reacted swiftly. Staff at a deli close to campus locked their doors and took shelter. Brandy Giraldo, Chief Operating Officer of General Muir, said employees heard multiple loud noises. “It sounded like fireworks going off, one right after the other,” she said.
In response to the active shooter situation, the Georgia Department of Transportation temporarily closed Clifton Road NE between Briarcliff Road NE and Haygood Drive, urging the public to steer clear.
The FBI Atlanta division confirmed it was assisting with the investigation. “FBI Atlanta is aware of the incident on Clifton Road in DeKalb County and is enroute and cooperating with local partners for any assistance that might be needed,” the agency said in a statement.
Following the shooting, Emory Point, located adjacent to both Emory University and the CDC’s main campus, was placed under heightened security.
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