GoFundMe for Georgia officer David Rose surpasses $590K as community honors his legacy

More than $590,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign supporting the family of Officer David Rose, the DeKalb County police officer who was tragically killed during a mass shooting outside the CDC headquarters in Atlanta on August 8. The campaign, launched by his widow, continues to draw nationwide support as tributes pour in for the fallen ofofficer.

About officer David Rose

Officer Rose had only been with the DeKalb County Police Department for a few months, having graduated from the police academy in March. Prior to joining the force, he served four years in the U.S. Marines and later worked for the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office. He demonstrated his dedication to public service throughout his career, and those who knew him felt it deeply.

He leaves behind two young children and a wife who is currently seven months pregnant with their third child. His mother, Deveane Atkinson, told 11Alive that her son “lived to serve others.”

“Everyone that knows him from high school, even when he finished the Marines, and when they met me, they would say, they’ve never seen him upset,” Atkinson said. “He’s always there to help, he always has a smile on his face, and he’s always even-tempered. He’s just always ready to serve.”

Home going celebration

Officer Rose was laid to rest on Friday, with hundreds of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and families in attendance. The ceremony honored his bravery and sacrifice, with many calling him a hero who gave his life protecting others.

Shooter identified

According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the shooter—identified as 30-year-old Patrick White—fired more than 180 rounds at the CDC campus on August 8 before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. White reportedly blamed COVID-19 vaccines for his declining mental health. No civilians were injured in the attack; Officer Rose was the only life lost.

Community and GoFundMe honors Officer Derrick Rose’s legacy

In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, more than 1,200 people participated in Atlanta’s Finest 5K last weekend, raising an additional $40,000 for Rose’s children’s education fund. The combined efforts reflect a community determined to honor Rose’s legacy and support his family through their unimaginable loss.

To contribute or learn more, visit the official GoFundMe page for Officer Derrick Rose’s family.