Gunman shot up four CDC buildings, director says

(NewsNation) — A gunman shot up at least four Centers for Disease Control and Prevention buildings before he was fatally wounded in Atlanta, according to the CDC director.

The shooter was found dead on the second floor of a building near the CDC campus after police rushed to Emory University in response to calls about an active shooter Friday.

A Dekalb County officer was shot as he confronted the gunman and has died of his injuries.

Police are now investigating the gunman's motive and whether he was targeting the CDC.

CDC statement on shooting

CDC Director Susan Monarez said Friday night that the gunman opened fire on at least four CDC buildings. Photos showed bullet holes in windows at the government complex.

“We at @CDCgov are heartbroken by today’s attack on our Roybal Campus, which remains on lockdown as authorities investigate the shooting. A courageous local law enforcement officer gave their life, and another was injured, after a gunman opened fire on at least four CDC buildings,” Monarez wrote in a statement.

“DeKalb County police, CDC security, and Emory University responded immediately and decisively, helping to prevent further harm to our staff and community. Our top priority is the safety and well-being of everyone at CDC. We are actively coordinating with federal, state, and local partners to fully investigate the shooter and this tragic crime.

“We are deeply grateful to Governor Kemp, Georgia residents, and the American people for standing with us during this difficult time.”

Emory University lockdown

Emory University, which neighbors the CDC campus, was on lockdown as hundreds of police officers searched for the shooter.

“Active shooter on Emory Atlanta campus at Emory Point CVS. RUN. HIDE. FIGHT. Avoid the area. Shelter in place,” the university wrote in an emergency alert.

Atlanta police said the shooter was dead and that there was no longer a threat to the campus in an update at 6:45 p.m.