Cobb County Police Department

Shoplifting Investigation Leads to an Officer Involved Shooting at Town Center Mall

Kennesaw, Georgia – May 27, 2026 - On May 27, 2026 at approximately 1:59 PM, uniformed patrol officers of the Cobb County Police Department responded to the Town Center Mall on reports of a shoplifting in progress.

An officer on scene approached the shoplifting suspect who fled on foot in the mall parking lot.
During the encounter, the suspect produced a handgun, and the officer discharged his service
weapon. The suspect was struck by gunfire.

Medical aid was rendered to the suspect, who was transported to a local hospital in serious condition. The suspect succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The suspect’s name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

No officers received any injuries during this incident.

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

In keeping with established protocol and to ensure a thorough and independent review, the
Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been requested to respond to the scene and will conduct the investigation into this officer-involved shooting.

Any further questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Once their investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for review.

🚨 Officer Involved Shooting 🚨

The Cobb County Police Department is currently on scene of an officer-involved shooting in the area of Town Center Mall. Residents and motorists should expect a significant law enforcement presence in the area.

Please avoid the area and seek alternate routes until further notice to allow personnel to safely manage the scene and conduct the investigation.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Cobb Police Seeking Additional Victims in Ongoing Investigation

Cobb County, GA (May 21, 2026): Detectives with the Cobb County Police Department Major Crimes Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying potential additional victims connected to an ongoing serial ra**st investigation.

Investigators believe some victims may be members of the Hispanic community and recognize that some individuals may be hesitant or afraid to come forward for a variety of reasons. The Cobb County Police Department wants to make one thing clear: our priority is protecting victims, providing support, and holding offenders accountable.

During the investigation, information was developed indicating there may be additional unidentified victims who have not yet come forward. Detectives believe some incidents may have occurred as far back as 2022 and may involve individuals in Georgia and Ohio.

Investigators believe additional victims may exist and are encouraging anyone who believes they may have had contact with this individual, or who believes they may have been victimized, to contact law enforcement.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department Major Crimes Unit at 770-499-3945.

Last week during Police Week, members of the Cobb County Police Honor Guard traveled to Washington, D.C. to pay their respects to the officers whose names were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial that died in 2025.

More than 20,000 law enforcement officers are memorialized there, including six of our own Cobb County Police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

We stood alongside our neighbors from Marietta, Georgia Police Department during the candlelight vigil where all of those who died had their names read aloud.

Please join us in congratulating the following members of our department on their well-earned promotions. All of them have consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and leadership in service to both the Cobb County Police Department and our community.

Captain Scherer appointed to Major
Lieutenant Nolen appointed to Captain
Sergeant Roe promoted to Lieutenant
Detective Walker promoted to Sergeant

We are proud of each of these outstanding leaders and grateful for their continued commitment to excellence, service, and teamwork. Their hard work and professionalism strengthen our department every day and help advance our mission in meaningful ways.

Congratulations to all on this significant achievement!

Cobb County Police officers recently gathered with the congregation of History Makers Church for an afternoon centered on community, encouragement, and appreciation. Church members welcomed officers with a meal, meaningful fellowship, and a heartfelt time of prayer. Pastor Laboy shared uplifting remarks that inspired everyone in attendance.

This annual tradition has become a special way for the church to honor and thank the officers who serve and protect the community each day. This year’s gathering carried even deeper significance as it took place during Police Week, making the occasion especially memorable for all involved.

On Saturday, May 9, the first annual South Cobb Mental Health Awareness Block Party brought the community together in a powerful way.

A huge thank you to Officer Mitchell and the Community Affairs Unit for their incredible dedication and hard work in making this event possible. Special appreciation also goes to the Mableton Pastors Collective, the Cobb Community Foundation, Jess Rousey Honoring Heroes Foundation, Inc, and the many sponsors, vendors, and performers who helped create such an unforgettable day.

From resources and support to performances, food, laughter, and healing, the community showed up with love in every form. The outpouring of unity and encouragement was overwhelming in the best way possible.

This event was created to turn pain into purpose, and its impact will continue to be felt throughout the community.

Be on the lookout for more amazing community events in the future!

Early this week, members of the Cobb County Police Department and Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services took off their duty vests and turnout gear for a little friendly competition during a Hyrox-style challenge.

From burpee broad jumps and sandbag lunges to sled pushes/pulls, farmer’s carries, and EIGHT 1-kilometer runs, these teams pushed through the heat, the grind, and every station with determination and teamwork.

This was more than a competition; it was a great reminder of the strength, resilience, and camaraderie shared by the men and women who serve our community every day. Outstanding effort by everyone who participated!

Early this week, members of the Cobb County Police Department and Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services took off their duty vests and turnout gear for a little friendly competition during a Hyrox-style challenge.

From burpee broad jumps and sandbag lunges to sled pushes/pulls, farmer’s carries, and EIGHT 1-kilometer runs, these teams pushed through the heat, the grind, and every station with determination and teamwork.

This was more than a competition; it was a great reminder of the strength, resilience, and camaraderie shared by the men and women who serve our community every day. Outstanding effort by everyone who participated!

Congratulations to Major Mangold on being recognized for 20 years of dedicated service with the Cobb County Police Department!

Your leadership, professionalism, and commitment to serving the community have made a lasting impact. Thank you for two decades of outstanding service and dedication.