STONE MOUNTAIN, GA — A routine fraud investigation turned deadly Sunday morning when two Gwinnett County police officers were shot inside a hotel room near Stone Mountain. Authorities confirmed that Officer Pradeep Tamang, 25, was killed, while Cpl. David M. Reed was seriously injured in the exchange of gunfire.
The incident unfolded around 7:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, 1790 E. Park Place Blvd., after officers responded to a fraud‑related call involving alleged credit card theft. According to the Gwinnett County Police Department and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the officers were invited into a room to speak with the suspect, identified as Kevin Andrews, 35, of Decatur.
During the conversation, Andrews allegedly produced a handgun and opened fire, striking both officers. One officer returned fire, wounding Andrews. He was transported to a hospital with non‑life‑threatening injuries before being booked into the Gwinnett County Jail.
Officer Tamang, originally from Nepal, had joined the department less than a year ago. He was pronounced dead at Northside Gwinnett Hospital. Cpl. Reed remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition.
The GBI is leading the investigation, with charges including murder and aggravated assault pending the outcome. Authorities revealed that Andrews has a lengthy criminal history, including multiple felony convictions involving violence, firearms, and narcotics. At the time of the shooting, he also had active warrants out of DeKalb County.
The death of Officer Tamang has shaken the Gwinnett County law enforcement community. Colleagues described him as a dedicated young officer who had quickly earned respect within the department. His service, though brief, was marked by commitment to protecting the public and building trust with the community.
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Cpl. Reed, a veteran officer, is being supported by fellow officers and medical staff as he recovers from his injuries. Police officials emphasized that his survival is a testament to his resilience and the quick response of emergency personnel.
Community members have expressed grief and outrage over the violence, with many calling for stronger measures to protect officers responding to routine calls that can suddenly turn dangerous. Vigils and tributes are expected in the coming days to honor Officer Tamang’s sacrifice.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the shooting, including how Andrews was able to obtain a firearm despite his criminal record. The case highlights ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in confronting repeat offenders with histories of violence.
For Gwinnett County, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the risks officers face daily. As the investigation moves forward, officials say their priority remains supporting the families of the fallen and wounded officers while ensuring justice is pursued against the suspect.
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