Active Shooter Incident Unfolds Near Emory Atlanta Campus; Community Urged to Shelter in Place

Active Shooter Incident Unfolds Near Emory Atlanta Campus; Community Urged to Shelter in Place

ATLANTA, Ga. — A terrifying and rapidly evolving situation is currently unfolding near the Emory University Atlanta campus, where an active shooter was reported in the vicinity of the CVS at Emory Point. The incident has prompted swift and coordinated action by local, state, and campus law enforcement, and a “shelter in place” order has been issued for students, faculty, staff, and nearby residents.

The initial emergency alert was sent out just after 4:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon, warning of an armed individual in the area. The message advised all individuals on campus and in surrounding buildings to take immediate protective action—either shelter in place or evacuate if it was safe to do so.

Eyewitness reports indicate that multiple gunshots were heard near the Emory Point shopping complex, a busy area adjacent to the university and directly across from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Law enforcement agencies quickly arrived on the scene, including units from the Emory Police Department, Atlanta Police Department, and DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities are actively sweeping the area in search of the suspect and working to secure buildings. Tactical units, including SWAT teams, have been seen entering and exiting nearby businesses and campus facilities. Helicopters are circling overhead, and ambulances remain on standby as the situation unfolds.

As of now, no official word has been given regarding the number of potential victims, injuries, or the identity of the suspect. Law enforcement has not yet confirmed whether the suspect is still at large or if any arrests have been made. A staging area for emergency response has been established near Clifton Road, and access to Emory Point and nearby roads has been heavily restricted.

Emory University has activated its emergency operations center and is coordinating directly with law enforcement to ensure the safety of everyone on and around campus. The university’s emergency notification system has continued to issue real-time updates through texts, emails, and its official website. Community members have been instructed to:

• Remain indoors and away from windows.

• Lock all doors and barricade entry points if necessary.

• Stay off campus unless cleared by law enforcement.

• Avoid calling emergency numbers unless in immediate danger, to keep lines open for critical communication.

Students and staff who were in class or working at the time of the alert are sheltering in place, and several campus buildings have been placed under full lockdown. Faculty members have been communicating with students via email and class portals to provide reassurance and updates.

In a brief statement, Emory University officials said:

“We are deeply concerned about the developing situation near Emory Point and are working closely with law enforcement to respond appropriately. Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. We urge everyone to follow shelter-in-place instructions until an all-clear is given.”

This event has sent shockwaves through the Emory community and the wider Atlanta area, sparking anxiety and concern as many wait for answers. Families of students and staff have been reaching out for information, while social media has been flooded with posts from those on campus sharing their experiences and seeking updates.

The FBI and ATF have reportedly been notified and are offering resources to assist in the response and investigation. Mental health support services are being activated both on campus and through external agencies to help individuals affected by the traumatic events.

As this remains a developing situation, the public is strongly urged to stay informed through official Emory University alerts, local news channels, and verified law enforcement sources. Rumors and misinformation can endanger lives and interfere with emergency response efforts.

Authorities will provide a formal update as soon as it is safe to do so.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for verified updates as more information becomes available. If you are in the area, follow law enforcement directives and do not attempt to leave shelter unless instructed.