Atlanta, August 10, 2025
News Summary
A shooting near Emory University and the CDC in Atlanta resulted in the death of Police Officer David Rose. The incident occurred during an active shooter response, leading to the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies and a nearby lockdown. The suspect, armed with five firearms, was ultimately found deceased on the scene. The tragedy has sparked discussions regarding mental health and misinformation related to vaccines.
Atlanta was shaken by a tragic shooting incident on August 8, 2025, near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The violence unfolded in the vicinity of the CDC’s Roybal Campus, where 33-year-old DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose was fatally shot while responding to reports of an active shooter.
Officer Rose was the first law enforcement official on the scene, where he confronted the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White. During the exchange of gunfire, Officer Rose sustained fatal injuries, while another officer was wounded but survived with non-life-threatening injuries. White was heavily armed, possessing five firearms, including two handguns, a rifle, and a shotgun, and began his shooting spree near multiple buildings within the CDC complex.
Witnesses described the incident as chaotic, with rapid gunfire that resembled fireworks echoing throughout the area. Following the initial shots, White proceeded to an Emory Point CVS store, where a shootout ensued on the second floor between the suspect and responding police officers. White was ultimately found deceased at the scene, although it remains undetermined whether he died from police gunfire or a self-inflicted injury.
The bizarre series of events began at approximately 4:50 p.m. and saw involvement from various law enforcement agencies, including the Atlanta Police, DeKalb County Police, and the FBI. Authorities quickly implemented lockdowns at both the CDC and Emory University campuses, while all daycare children in the vicinity were safely evacuated. Reports confirmed that multiple windows at the CDC were damaged by gunfire, but fortunately, no civilians were injured during the ordeal.
Officer David Rose had a distinguished service record, having recently graduated from the police academy. Prior to his tenure in law enforcement, he served in Afghanistan. Tragically, Officer Rose leaves behind a pregnant wife and two children, with a third child on the way.
Investigators are looking into the motive behind the shooting, with early reports indicating that Patrick Joseph White had expressed grievances about his health condition, allegedly blaming his illness on the COVID-19 vaccine. Just hours before the shooting, White’s father contacted authorities, expressing concerns for his son’s mental health and suggesting he might be suicidal. White had previously attempted to enter the CDC headquarters but was denied access by security before moving to the CVS.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading an in-depth inquiry into the shooting, and investigators expect the process to take an extended period due to the complexity of the scene and circumstances surrounding the incident. Consequently, the CDC’s campus remains closed pending a comprehensive security assessment.
The aftermath of the shooting has sparked increasing calls for federal agencies to address misinformation regarding vaccines, highlighting the impact of public discourse on mental health and safety. Law enforcement continue to probe the precise details surrounding White’s actions and mental state leading up to the assault.
FAQ Section
What led to the shooting incident in Atlanta on August 8, 2025?
The shooting began when Patrick Joseph White, armed with multiple firearms, opened fire near the CDC. Officer David Rose responded to the scene, where he encountered the gunman and was fatally wounded.
What injuries occurred during the incident?
Officer David Rose was killed in the exchange of gunfire, and another officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
What was the status of the CDC and Emory University during the incident?
Both the CDC and Emory University were placed on lockdown during the shooting, and nearby daycare children were evacuated safely.
What investigations are ongoing following the shooting?
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is overseeing the investigation, examining the circumstances leading to the shooting, including the motives of the shooter.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | August 8, 2025 |
| Location | Near Emory University and CDC, Atlanta |
| Officer Involved | David Rose, DeKalb County Police |
| Suspect | Patrick Joseph White |
| Number of Firearms | Five (Two handguns, one rifle, one shotgun) |
| Injuries | One officer fatal, one officer non-life-threatening |
| Investigation Lead | Georgia Bureau of Investigation |
| Current Status | CDC campus closed for security assessment |
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Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
