'One day at a time': Community mourns Georgia police officer killed in CDC shooting

Caption

Officers gather at the funeral of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose in Dunwoody on Aug. 22, 2025. Rose was killed by a gunman near CDC headquarters in Atlanta on Aug. 8, 2025.

Credit: Amanda Andrews / GPB

This is a developing story.

Hundreds gathered at First Baptist Church Atlanta in Dunwoody today to remember DeKalb County police officer and former Marine David Rose.

Attendees included Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Theodore Hertzberg, the U.S. Attorney from the Northern District of Georgia, representatives from the office of Sen. Raphael Warnock, DeKalb County CEO, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson and the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, along with dozens of police officers.

Major William Wallace welcomed those gathered in the church and reminded them of the sacrifice Rose made when he was killed in the line of duty by a gunman near Clifton Road who sprayed 200 rounds into the windows of the CDC headquarters before killing himself.

"As I stand here before you today, I look over this great room and I reflect on the many many people over these difficult days who have provided us with love, encouragement, support, and compassion," Wallace said. "And I cannot help but be filled with gratitude and humility. Although we will never be able to repay Officer Rose for the sacrifice he made on that Friday afternoon, today we will do our absolute best to honor him."

Officer Rose joined the DeKalb County Police Department in September 2024, after serving four years in the United States Marine Corps, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Assigned to the North Central Precinct, he "quickly earned the respect of his colleagues for his dedication, courage, and professionalism," a statement from DeKalb County read. He is survived by his wife, two young children, and a third child expected later this year, along with his parents, siblings, and extended family.

Caption

Hundreds gathered for the funeral of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose in Dunwoody on Aug. 22, 2025. Rose was killed by a gunman near CDC headquarters in Atlanta on Aug. 8, 2025.

Credit: DeKalb County

Rose's daughter, wearing a T-shirt that read "My Daddy Is My Hero" was presented a flag before the benediction.

Following the service Rose was honored with a rendition of "Amazing Grace" as well as a flyover and 21-gun salute. 

Many CDC workers attended, including Lisa Walker.

She said she’s experienced a roller coaster of emotions since the shooting and is grateful for the opportunity to honor Rose.

“I was there on the 8th and but, you know, we have a strong community at the agency and we're supporting each other. So, it's one day at a time.”