In brief
In a tragic turn of events at a hotel in Lawrenceville, Georgia, two Gwinnett County police officers were shot while investigating a credit card fraud case. Officer Pradeep Tamang, 25, lost his life, while Officer David Reed was seriously wounded. The suspect, Kevin Andrews, was also injured in the exchange of gunfire. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now overseeing the case as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this violent encounter.
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. (AP) — In a devastating shootout at a suburban Atlanta hotel on Sunday, two officers were shot after being invited into a suspect’s room, leading to the death of one officer and serious injury to another.
According to Gwinnett County Police Chief J.D. McClure, the incident unfolded in the morning near Stone Mountain, approximately 25 miles northeast of Atlanta, when officers responded to a report of credit card fraud. The officers were directed to the room of the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Kevin Andrews from Decatur, Georgia.
Upon entering, the officers began discussing the incident with Andrews, who unexpectedly drew a handgun and initiated an unprovoked attack, firing at the police officers. Officer Pradeep Tamang, aged 25 and a recent addition to the police department, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital. Officer David Reed was hospitalized and in serious but stable condition.
McClure emphasized the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily, expressing gratitude for those who risk their lives to ensure public safety. Governor Brian Kemp reiterated this sentiment, recognizing the bravery of law enforcement in protecting the citizens of Georgia.
The investigation of the shooting has been referred to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which is expected to lead the inquiry and determine the appropriate charges against Andrews, whose current legal representation status is unknown.
