Brother of Broncos Rookie Tragically Killed While Breaking Up Brawl Between Lions and Falcons Fans

Tragedy struck Friday night when DeKalb County police officer David Rose, 33, was fatally shot while trying to break up a violent brawl between Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons fans outside the CDC headquarters, following the NFL preseason game between the two teams. The altercation, which began with taunting, quickly escalated into physical violence, with bottles thrown and punches exchanged before gunfire erupted, leading to the officer’s tragic death.

Rose, a dedicated police officer, was on patrol when he responded to the chaotic scene just before 5 p.m., several miles away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where the Lions had defeated the Falcons 24-17. As he worked to separate the combatants, an unidentified suspect, believed to be one of the fans involved in the brawl, opened fire, striking Rose multiple times. He was rushed to Emory University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

It was later revealed that Rose was the older brother of Denver Broncos rookie outside linebacker Que Robinson, a promising prospect out of Alabama. Robinson, known for his speed and edge-rush abilities, is competing for a role in the Broncos' linebacker rotation this season.

Following the shooting, a second gunfire exchange took place at a nearby CVS pharmacy, with the suspected gunman also being killed. Investigators are still determining whether the fatal injury was self-inflicted or caused by return fire from police officers.

Rose, who joined the DeKalb County Police Department in September 2024, is survived by his pregnant wife, two young children, and his rookie brother.

Interim Police Chief Greg Padrick expressed condolences, saying, "Officer Rose put himself in harm’s way to protect others during what should have been a celebratory evening."

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, CDC Director Susan Monarez, and U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock all honored Rose’s service and sacrifice, calling his death a profound loss for both the community and the state of Georgia.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the FBI, is leading the investigation into the incident. Several individuals from the fight were detained for questioning, and while no other injuries were reported among fans, authorities are urging increased vigilance to prevent similar tragedies at future games.