A tragic incident unfolded at a suburban Atlanta hotel on Sunday morning, resulting in the death of one police officer and serious injury to another during a shootout that erupted while they were investigating a credit card fraud report. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed that the officers were dispatched to the hotel near Stone Mountain, approximately 25 miles northeast of Atlanta, after a caller from another state reported fraudulent use of their credit card at the location.
Unprovoked Attack During Routine Investigation
According to Gwinnett County Police Chief J.D. McClure, who addressed the media during a news conference, the officers were directed by the hotel's front desk clerk to the room of the individual suspected of using the stolen credit card. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Kevin Andrews from Decatur, Georgia, greeted the officers at his door and invited them inside to discuss the matter.
"They began discussing the scenario or the incident with him," Chief McClure stated. "And at some point the suspect produced a handgun and, in an unprovoked attack, fired at our Gwinnett County police officers."
Officers and Suspect Shot in Exchange of Fire
The shootout resulted in fatal injuries for Officer Pradeep Tamang, a 25-year-old native of Nepal who had joined the police department just last year. He was pronounced dead at a hospital following the incident. His colleague, Officer David Reed, was hospitalized in serious but stable condition as of Sunday afternoon.
The suspect, Kevin Andrews, was also shot by one of the officers during the exchange of gunfire. He received medical treatment and is expected to survive his injuries. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Andrews has legal representation who could comment on his behalf.
Investigation Transferred to State Bureau
In accordance with standard procedure for shootings involving law enforcement officers in Georgia, the investigation has been turned over to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Chief McClure indicated that it will be up to the GBI and local prosecutors to determine what charges will be brought against Andrews following their thorough examination of the circumstances.
Governor Acknowledges Law Enforcement Dangers
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp responded to the tragedy on social media platform X, stating: "This is the latest reminder of the dangers law enforcement face on a daily basis, and we are grateful for every one that puts themselves in harm's way to protect their fellow Georgians."
The shooting occurred in Gwinnett County, a suburban area northeast of Atlanta that has experienced significant growth in recent years. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local law enforcement community and raised questions about the risks officers encounter during what might initially appear to be routine investigations.
As the Georgia Bureau of Investigation continues its work on the case, the community mourns the loss of Officer Tamang while hoping for the full recovery of Officer Reed. The tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers that police officers may confront when responding to calls, even those that begin as non-violent financial crime investigations.
