Suspect Dies After Officer-Involved Shooting at Town Center Mall in Cobb County

KENNESAW, Georgia – An investigation is underway after a suspected shoplifter was shot and killed by a police officer Wednesday afternoon at Town Center Mall in Cobb County.

According to the Cobb County Police Department, officers responded around 1:59 p.m. May 27 to reports of a shoplifting in progress at Town Center at Cobb in Kennesaw.

Police said an officer confronted the suspect, who then fled on foot through the mall parking lot.

During the encounter, investigators said the suspect produced a handgun, prompting the officer to fire his service weapon.

The suspect was struck by gunfire and received medical aid at the scene before being transported to a local hospital in serious condition.

Authorities later confirmed the suspect died at the hospital.

The suspect’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

No officers were injured during the incident, police said.

“This incident is understandably concerning for our community, and our thoughts remain with all those affected,” Cobb County Police Chief Dan Ferrell said in a statement. “We are thankful that no officers were injured and remain committed to transparency and a thorough, independent review as the process moves forward.”

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been requested to conduct an independent investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Once completed, the investigation will be forwarded to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for review.