LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — In a tragic incident on Sunday, a police visit to a suburban Atlanta hotel regarding credit card fraud turned deadly when a suspect shot two officers, resulting in one officer's death and another's serious injury.
The shooting occurred at a hotel near Stone Mountain, approximately 25 miles northeast of Atlanta. Officers were dispatched after a report from a caller in another state regarding fraudulent credit card activity associated with the hotel.
Upon arrival, the suspect, Kevin Andrews, 35, greeted the officers, welcoming them into his room. As discussions progressed, he unexpectedly produced a handgun, launching an unprovoked assault on the officers.
Officer Pradeep Tamang, age 25, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. Hailing from Nepal, he had joined the Gwinnett County Police Department only last year. Officer David Reed, who sustained serious injuries, is reported to be in stable condition.
In response to the incident, Chief J.D. McClure commented on the daily dangers law enforcement officers face, expressing gratitude towards all who risk their safety to protect citizens. Governor Brian Kemp also reaffirmed his support for law enforcement, acknowledging their commitment to public safety.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is overseeing the investigation, which is standard protocol in cases involving law enforcement shootings. McClure stated that decisions on charges against Andrews will be made by the GBI and local prosecutors.
The community mourns the loss of Officer Tamang and supports those recovering from the tragic event.
