Lawrenceville, Georgia — A police officer was fatally shot and another was critically injured on Sunday during a response to a fraud call at a hotel in Gwinnett County, about 25 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Kevin Andrews, was also shot during the confrontation and is now in custody.
The incident unfolded at approximately 7:30 a.m. at a Holiday Inn located on East Park Place Boulevard. Officers from the Gwinnett County Police Department were dispatched to investigate reports of possible fraud or forgery linked to a hotel room.
Police have confirmed the identities of the officers involved: Master Police Officer David M. Reed and Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang. Tragically, Officer Tamang succumbed to his injuries, while Officer Reed remains in critical but stable condition.
Officer Tamang, who had relocated from Nepal about a decade ago, joined the Gwinnett County Police Department in July 2024. He graduated from the 121st Police Academy just a year later. Described as dedicated and engaged, his family, who reside in Pennsylvania, are being brought to Georgia to be with him during this difficult time.
Gwinnett County Police Chief J.D. McClure provided details about the incident during a press briefing. Officers approached a hotel room believed to have been rented under fraudulent circumstances and were invited in by Andrews. “When discussing the situation with him, the suspect suddenly produced a handgun and opened fire on the officers,” McClure stated. “Both officers sustained gunshot wounds, while one officer managed to return fire, striking the suspect.”
Authorities revealed that Andrews has a significant criminal history, including multiple felony convictions related to violent offenses, gun crimes, and drug charges. At the time of the incident, he had active warrants in DeKalb County.
While the investigation focuses on the details surrounding the alleged fraud, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now leading the inquiry into the shooting. Full circumstances regarding Andrews’ role in the hotel incident remain unclear.
The community is now grappling with the loss of Officer Tamang and the condition of Officer Reed, as support pours in for the respective families and the department during this trying time. The Gwinnett County Police Department has expressed their deep sorrow for the loss of Officer Tamang, emphasizing the risks law enforcement face daily in the line of duty.