Atlanta, GA, August 12, 2025
News Summary
A devastating shooting incident at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta left DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose dead. The suspect, Patrick Joseph White, fired over 150 rounds, raising critical concerns regarding mental health and the influence of anti-vaccine rhetoric. Following the incident, security measures have come under scrutiny, and the community has rallied to support Officer Rose’s family amidst the tragedy.
Atlanta, GA – Patrick Joseph White, a 30-year-old man, has been identified as the sole suspect in a shooting incident at the CDC headquarters that resulted in the death of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose. White is now accused of firing over 150 rounds at the CDC complex in a tragic event that has raised serious concerns about public safety and mental health issues linked to anti-vaccine sentiments.
During the shooting, it has been reported that approximately 200 rounds struck six buildings on the CDC campus, though thankfully, no employees were injured. Authorities discovered at least 500 shell casings at the scene, predominantly from a long gun. Following the shooting, White died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with ongoing investigations to determine whether he was also shot by police during the incident.
Before the attack, White had expressed suicidal thoughts and had no known criminal history, though he had a troubling background of police interventions related to mental health crises. His father reportedly made multiple 911 calls to express concern for his son’s wellbeing, indicating that White had a history of suicidal behavior and domestic disturbances. The address associated with White was mentioned in 11 different 911 calls over the past few years, highlighting the severity of his mental health struggles.
Incident Details
The shooting unfolded when White allegedly broke into a safe at his family’s home to access firearms, which consisted of various guns including rifles, shotguns, and potentially handguns that belonged to his father. Following the attack at the CDC, authorities recovered five firearms, several electronic devices, and video evidence as part of their investigation.
Officer Rose, age 33, was shot and fatally injured while responding to the shooting incident. In the aftermath, a nearby daycare was evacuated, ensuring that all children were safely reunited with their families.
Mental Health and Vaccine Distrust
Investigators discovered written documents at the scene, which indicated White’s deep distrust of COVID-19 vaccines, although these were characterized as personal statements without direct threats. The shooting has prompted renewed discussions about the potential impacts of anti-vaccine rhetoric on public safety and mental health, drawing attention to the dynamics at play concerning perceptions and fears surrounding vaccinations.
As a result of the incident, CDC employees have raised concerns over security measures at the facility. Current operations are being conducted remotely while safety assessments are ongoing. The event has ignited conversations about the need for stronger security protocols in response to rising fears for personal safety among employees.
Community Response
A GoFundMe campaign established for the family of Officer Rose has raised over $330,000 to support them during this difficult time. In light of the tragic event, health officials and community leaders are seeking further insights and information related to the incident, with the FBI and Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) encouraging anyone with information or footage to reach out to a designated tip line.
The difficult balance between ensuring public safety and addressing the underlying issues of mental health has become more pronounced as communities grapple with the fallout from this shooting. The tragedy is a somber reminder of the challenges posed by mental health issues in connection with violent acts, potentially compounded by the ongoing debates surrounding health and safety in the face of the pandemic.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the pressing need for effective mental health support systems and public safety measures, particularly in environments where health professionals are facing unprecedented challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Patrick Joseph White?
- Patrick Joseph White is the 30-year-old suspect in the CDC shooting incident that resulted in the death of Officer David Rose.
- What happened during the shooting at the CDC?
- White fired over 150 rounds at the CDC headquarters, striking six buildings, though no employees were harmed. DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose was killed while responding to the situation.
- What was the motive for the shooting?
- Investigators found documents revealing White’s distrust of COVID-19 vaccines, suggesting that mental health issues and anti-vaccine sentiments may have contributed to the incident.
- What is being done in response to the shooting?
- CDC employees are currently working remotely as security assessments are conducted. Community leaders are advocating for stronger security measures in light of the tragedy.
Incident Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Patrick Joseph White, 30 |
| Location | CDC Headquarters, Atlanta |
| Casings Found | Over 500 shell casings |
| Buildings Struck | Six buildings |
| Fatalities | Officer David Rose |
| Community Impact | Childcare evacuation, increased security concerns |
| Fundraiser | Over $330,000 for Officer Rose’s family |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Recent Shootings Raise Safety Concerns in Midtown Atlanta
Shooting at CDC Headquarters Raises Safety Concerns
Atlanta CDC Shooting: Officer Remembered as Hero
CDC Implements Remote Work After Targeted Shooting in Atlanta
Tragic Shooting Near CDC Headquarters in Atlanta
Tragic Shooting Incident Near Emory University
DeKalb County Police Officer Killed in Active Shooter Incident
Atlanta Shooting Near CDC and Emory University Leaves Officer Dead
Tragic Active Shooter Incident in DeKalb County
Tragic Shooting Near Emory University Claims Officer’s Life
Additional Resources
- 11Alive
- Wikipedia: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- New York Post
- Google Search: CDC shooting
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mental Health
- USA Today
- Google News: Mental health and shooting
- People
- Google Scholar: Anti-vaccine sentiments
- Newsweek
- CDC Official Website
- Time
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Health
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.
