Gwinnett County, Georgia, February 2, 2026
A tragic incident in Gwinnett County, Georgia, has left a police officer dead and another critically injured following an ambush shooting at a hotel. The officers were responding to a report of credit card theft when they were shot by a suspect with an active warrant. Officer Pradeep Tamang, aged 25, was killed, while Corporal David Reed was seriously wounded. The community mourns the loss, while the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding this violent act.
Atlanta
A Somber Dawn in Gwinnett County: Officer Lost, Another Critically Wounded in Ambush
In the quiet hours of Sunday morning, February 1, a profound sorrow descended upon Gwinnett County, Georgia, as an ambush shooting claimed the life of one of its dedicated police officers, leaving another critically wounded. The incident, occurring at a hotel in the Atlanta area, has cast a somber light on the inherent perils faced by those who stand in the line of duty, guarding the fabric of civil society. It is a moment that calls for a pause, inviting reflection on the human cost of maintaining public order.
Details of the Incident and Personnel Involved
The tragic event unfolded around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 1, when officers from the Gwinnett County Police Department responded to the Holiday Inn Express on East Park Place Boulevard, near Stone Mountain. The initial call concerned an allegation of credit card theft, a report originating from an individual in South Carolina who claimed fraudulent use of their card at the hotel.
Upon arrival, two officers engaged with the hotel’s front desk manager, who indicated that a room was being rented to a suspect identified as Kevin Andrews, 35 years old, of Decatur, Georgia. The officers then proceeded to Mr. Andrews’ room and were invited inside to discuss the reported fraud.
During their interaction, a crucial piece of information emerged: Mr. Andrews had an active warrant out of DeKalb County for failure to appear in court. As the officers attempted to effect an arrest based on this warrant, Mr. Andrews unexpectedly drew a handgun and opened fire, striking both officers in what Chief J.D. McClure of the Gwinnett County Police Department described as an “unprovoked attack”.
The fallen officer has been identified as Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang, 25 years old. Officer Tamang, a native of Nepal who had immigrated to the United States approximately a decade ago, had joined the Gwinnett County Police Department less than a year prior, graduating from the academy in May and beginning his service in July 2024. His passing marks him as the sixth Gwinnett County officer killed in the line of duty, a poignant statistic that underscores the profound sacrifices made in the call of public service. He was reportedly engaged, his family now facing an immeasurable loss.
The second officer, Corporal David Reed (also referred to as MPO David Reed), sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to the hospital in critical condition. Thankfully, his condition has since stabilized to serious but stable, offering a measure of relief amidst the collective grief. Despite their injuries, one of the officers was able to return fire, striking the suspect. Mr. Andrews’ injuries were described as non-life-threatening, and after receiving medical treatment, he was subsequently booked into the Gwinnett County Jail.
Investigation and Community Response
The investigation into this grave incident is being led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), ensuring a thorough and impartial examination of the facts. Authorities anticipate that Mr. Andrews will face charges including murder and aggravated assault, reflecting the severity of the crimes committed. His criminal history is extensive, encompassing prior felony convictions related to robbery, firearms, and narcotics.
In the wake of this tragedy, expressions of sorrow and solidarity have poured forth. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp offered his deepest condolences to the grieving department and extended prayers for the recovery of the injured officer. Gwinnett County Police Chief J.D. McClure, in a public statement, affirmed the department’s unwavering resolve, declaring, “We as a police department will not be deterred. We will continue to provide for the safety of this community”. The Gwinnett County Commission Chair, Nicole Love Hendrickson, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the devastating loss and urging community support for the officers’ families and the entire department.
Such moments, though born of sudden violence, reveal the deeper, often quiet, currents of human courage and communal responsibility. The loss of Officer Tamang is not merely a statistic but a poignant reminder of a young life abruptly ended in the service of others, a stark illustration of the unseen battles fought daily on the streets. For Corporal Reed, his recovery represents hope and the enduring spirit of resilience. For the community, it is an occasion to reflect on the solemn commitment of those who, day in and day out, step into uncertainty to uphold the peace, accepting a burden few others could bear. Their sacrifice invites a renewed appreciation for the often-unseen foundation upon which a stable society rests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Gwinnett County on February 1?
On Sunday morning, February 1, an ambush shooting in Gwinnett County, Georgia, claimed the life of one police officer and left another critically wounded. The incident occurred at a Holiday Inn Express when officers were investigating a credit card theft report.
Who was the officer killed in the Gwinnett County shooting?
The officer killed in the Gwinnett County shooting was Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang, 25 years old. He had been with the Gwinnett County Police Department for less than a year.
Who was the injured officer in the Gwinnett County shooting?
The injured officer was Corporal David Reed (also referred to as MPO David Reed), who was critically wounded but is now in serious but stable condition.
What was the officers’ initial call in Gwinnett County?
The officers were initially responding to a call regarding an allegation of credit card theft at a Holiday Inn Express.
Who is the suspect in the Gwinnett County shooting?
The suspect in the Gwinnett County shooting is Kevin Andrews, 35 years old, of Decatur, Georgia. He has a lengthy criminal history.
What charges is the suspect expected to face?
The suspect, Kevin Andrews, is expected to face charges including murder and aggravated assault.
Which agency is investigating the shooting?
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the Gwinnett County shooting.
Key Details of the Gwinnett County Officer Shooting
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | Sunday morning, February 1, 2026, around 7:30 a.m. |
| Location | Holiday Inn Express, East Park Place Boulevard, Stone Mountain, Gwinnett County, Georgia |
| Initial Call | Report of credit card theft/fraud |
| Deceased Officer | Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang, 25 years old, Gwinnett County Police Department |
| Injured Officer | Corporal David Reed, in serious but stable condition |
| Suspect | Kevin Andrews, 35 years old, of Decatur, Georgia |
| Suspect Status | Injured, treated, and booked into Gwinnett County Jail |
| Investigating Agency | Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) |
| Expected Charges (Suspect) | Murder, Aggravated Assault |
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