Where Is Emory University? Atlanta Campus Shooting Leaves Officer Injured, Suspect Dead

A tragic afternoon unfolded at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, after an active shooter incident left one law enforcement officer seriously injured and the suspect dead. The campus, located near the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was placed under a shelter-in-place order on Friday, August 8, 2025, before the alert was lifted later in the day.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, officers encountered a heavily armed suspect positioned on the roof of the Emory Point CVS. Gunfire erupted during the confrontation, injuring an officer before police returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect. Authorities have not yet disclosed the suspect’s identity or motive.

Witnesses reported a tense, fast-moving scene as officers moved to secure the area. The CDC headquarters, located just blocks away, was placed on heightened security, though officials have stated it is unclear if the incident had any direct connection to the federal agency.

Where Is Emory University Located?

Emory University is a prestigious private research university situated in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. The main campus is about six miles northeast of downtown Atlanta and is well known for its close proximity to major medical and public health institutions, including Emory University Hospital and the CDC headquarters.

Founded in 1836, Emory is recognized for its strong programs in medicine, law, public health, and the liberal arts. Its Atlanta campus spans over 600 acres, blending historic architecture with cutting-edge research facilities. This strategic location, along with its academic excellence, places the university at the heart of Georgia’s higher education and healthcare community.

How the Shooting Unfolded

Sources told ABC News that police became aware of the suspect after hearing gunfire in the area. The suspect, described as heavily armed, was spotted on the rooftop of a CVS at Emory Point, a mixed-use complex adjacent to the campus.

Officers attempted to engage, but an exchange of gunfire ensued, leaving one officer seriously wounded. Emergency responders rushed the injured officer to a nearby hospital, where they remain in stable but serious condition, according to law enforcement officials.

The swift response from multiple agencies—including Atlanta Police, FBI Atlanta, and campus security—was credited with preventing further casualties.

Official Reactions and Security Response

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp publicly thanked first responders for “rushing toward the danger to subdue the shooter and save lives.” Attorney General Chris Carr expressed deep concern for the Emory community, calling the incident “horrifying” and urging prayers for those affected.

The White House confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely. In the hours after the shooting, security around the CDC and Emory campus was visibly increased, with emergency vehicles and law enforcement patrols stationed throughout the area.

Why This Incident Matters

The shooting at Emory University highlights ongoing concerns about campus safety across the United States, particularly at institutions located in urban areas. With its proximity to federal health facilities, Emory’s location makes it a sensitive security zone. The quick lifting of the shelter-in-place order suggests police were confident the threat had been neutralized, but the investigation into the suspect’s background and possible motives remains ongoing.

What’s Next for the Emory Community

Classes and campus operations are expected to resume gradually, with additional security measures in place for the coming days. Counseling services have been made available for students, faculty, and staff shaken by the incident.

University officials have stated they will review and, if necessary, update their emergency response protocols in coordination with local and federal law enforcement agencies.

The resilience of the Emory University community is being tested, but the swift response by law enforcement and first responders has likely prevented a far greater tragedy. The location of Emory University—near critical federal agencies and in one of Atlanta’s most prominent educational corridors—underscores the importance of security readiness and coordinated emergency planning.

You Must Know:

Q1: Where is Emory University located?
Emory University is in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia, about six miles northeast of downtown. It’s near the CDC headquarters and major medical centers.

Q2: What happened at Emory University on August 8, 2025?
A heavily armed suspect opened fire near the campus. One police officer was injured, and the suspect was shot and killed during an exchange of gunfire.

Q3: Was the CDC involved in the incident?
While the CDC is located nearby, there is currently no evidence linking the shooting directly to the federal agency.

Q4: Who responded to the Emory University shooting?
Local police, FBI Atlanta, and campus security coordinated to neutralize the threat.

Q5: Is Emory University safe now?
Yes, police have lifted the shelter-in-place order, and increased security measures are in effect.