David Rose was an American police officer in the DeKalb County Police Department and a former U.S. Marine who lost his life in the line of duty on August 8, 2025. He died while responding to an active shooter incident near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia.
He was 33 years old and known for his courage, discipline, and dedication to protecting others. Before becoming a police officer, David served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including a deployment to Afghanistan. He was a husband, father of two daughters, and was expecting a third child at the time of his passing. Tributes poured in from across the country after his death.
David Rose Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | David Rose |
| Date of Birth | 1992 |
| Age (at death) | 33 years (August 8, 2025) |
| Profession | Police Officer, Former U.S. Marine |
| Residence | DeKalb County, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
Physical Details
| Height | Approx. 5’10” – 6’0” |
| Weight | Approx. 80–90 kg |
Early Life
David Rose was born in 1992, most likely in Georgia, USA. From a young age, he was drawn toward public service and protecting others. After finishing high school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where he developed discipline, leadership skills, and bravery.
He served in Afghanistan, which further strengthened his commitment to keeping people safe. After completing his military service, David returned to Georgia and worked briefly in law enforcement before joining the DeKalb County Police Department.
Education
David’s formal education details are not publicly known, but he completed high school before enlisting in the Marine Corps. Later, he joined the DeKalb County Police Academy, graduating in March 2025 as the leader of Class 138.
Family
David Rose was a devoted family man. He was married, had two daughters, and was expecting a third child (a son) when he passed away. His wife and children were the center of his life, and his family was proud of his service to the country and community.
Career
David Rose began his professional journey in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving for several years, including a deployment to Afghanistan. His time in the military built his discipline, physical strength, and leadership abilities.
In August 2021, he briefly worked as a jailer at the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office. Later, in September 2024, he joined the DeKalb County Police Department.
By March 2025, David graduated from the DeKalb County Police Academy as Class 138’s leader. In his graduation speech, he said policing was about protecting the vulnerable and running toward danger when others run away.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Dekalb County Police Officer David Rose, who was tragically killed in the line of duty while stopping an active shooter.
— Gwinnett County Police (@GwinnettPd) August 9, 2025
Our hearts are with the DeKalb County Police Department as they mourn the loss of one of their own. His… pic.twitter.com/TXpLuW1rEm
On August 8, 2025, he proved those words true. David responded to an active shooter at a CVS store near Emory University and the CDC. The gunman, later identified as Patrick Joseph White, opened fire. David was tragically shot and killed, but his actions prevented civilian casualties.
Career Milestones
| Year | Achievement |
| Unknown | Served in U.S. Marine Corps, deployed to Afghanistan |
| 2021 | Worked as jailer, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office |
| 2024 | Joined DeKalb County Police Department |
| 2025 | Graduated from DeKalb County Police Academy (Class 138 leader) |
| 2025 | Killed while responding to Emory University shooting |
Net Worth
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Annual Income | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Income Sources | Police salary, military veteran benefits |
David Rose’s wealth came mainly from his police officer salary and military veteran benefits. His earnings were modest, reflecting a life dedicated to public service rather than personal financial gain.
Tributes & Legacy
After his death, tributes came from many prominent figures, including the Atlanta Mayor, Georgia’s Governor, and the FBI Director. Flags in DeKalb County were lowered to half-staff. His story sparked conversations about gun violence and the risks law enforcement officers face daily.
David Rose is remembered as a hero who lived a life of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to others.
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