Kevin Andrews Jr. Charged with Murder in Fatal Shooting of Gwinnett County Officer

 GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — Authorities have formally charged Kevin Andrews Jr., 35, of Decatur, with multiple felony counts following the fatal shooting of Gwinnett County Police Officer Pradeep Tamang and the wounding of Master Police Officer David Reed during a Sunday morning incident at a hotel in Stone Mountain.

According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the shooting unfolded around 7:55 a.m. on February 1 at the Holiday Inn Express, 1790 E. Park Place Boulevard, where officers were responding to a report of credit card theft. A South Carolina resident had reported fraudulent use of their card to book a room occupied by Andrews.

When officers entered the room, they discovered Andrews had an active DeKalb County warrant for failure to appear. As they attempted to arrest him, Andrews allegedly drew a handgun and opened fire, striking both officers. One officer returned fire, wounding Andrews, who was later taken into custody and is reported to be in stable condition.

Officer Pradeep Tamang, 25, a recent graduate of the police academy, was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Officer David Reed underwent surgery and remains in critical but stable condition.

Andrews now faces charges of malice murder, felony murder, two counts of aggravated assault on a public safety officer, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Authorities noted that Andrews has a history of felony convictions involving violent crimes, firearms, and drugs.

The GBI is continuing its investigation, working alongside Gwinnett County Police and other agencies to piece together the full circumstances of the shooting. Officials emphasized that the incident highlights the dangers officers face daily when responding to seemingly routine calls.

Community members and law enforcement colleagues have expressed grief over the loss of Officer Tamang, who was remembered as a dedicated young officer committed to serving his community. Vigils and memorials are expected to be organized in his honor, while prayers continue for Officer Reed’s recovery.

Gwinnett County Police Chief and local leaders have called the shooting a devastating reminder of the risks inherent in policing, urging the public to keep the officers’ families in their thoughts.

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