Atlanta, August 9, 2025
News Summary
A shooting near Emory University and the CDC resulted in the death of Officer David Rose, 33, and left the shooter, Patrick Joseph White, dead on the scene. Authorities are investigating the incident, which involved gunfire that struck several buildings affiliated with the CDC. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among CDC employees, though many expressed fear for their safety. The ongoing investigation includes federal and local law enforcement as community leaders call for better protections for public health workers.
Atlanta – A tragic shooting occurred on Friday afternoon near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), resulting in the death of a DeKalb County police officer. The gunman, identified by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia, opened fire at approximately 4:50 p.m. at a CVS located in Emory Point, a mixed-use property that is home to shops, restaurants, and offices.
During the chaotic encounter, Officer David Rose, aged 33, was fatally shot. Investigators have confirmed that White died at the scene, but it remains uncertain whether he was shot by responding officers or died by suicide. Law enforcement found White on the second floor of the CVS store, armed with a long gun and carrying several other firearms including a rifle, a shotgun, and two handguns, as well as two backpacks filled with ammunition.
The incident escalated quickly, with at least four buildings affiliated with the CDC being struck by bullets. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among CDC employees or visitors, although four individuals sought medical attention for stress and anxiety related to the incident. Employees expressed feelings of being vulnerable in the midst of the gunfire and described the situation as terrifying.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Emory University campus was placed on lockdown while police responded to the active shooter situation. A neighbor described White as a generally pleasant individual who often helped others, but noted that he had voiced anti-vaccine sentiments, suggesting he believed the COVID-19 vaccine had impacted his health.
The investigation into the motive behind the shooting is ongoing and is expected to take time due to the complexity of the scene and the number of interviews required. Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and GBI, are actively involved in this investigation. With the focus being on the troubling trend of gun violence, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens extended his condolences to Officer Rose’s family and emphasized the need for a national discussion on the issue.
Officer Rose joined the DeKalb County police force in September of the previous year and was set to celebrate his first anniversary in service next month. He was a married father of two, with a third child on the way. His tragic loss is being felt deeply within the law enforcement community and throughout the area. In response to the shooting, the CDC has authorized remote work for staff on Monday while a security assessment is conducted to ensure the safety of employees.
As news of the shooting continues to circulate, public health officials and community leaders have called for enhanced protections for public health workers, highlighting the essential roles they play in society. The ongoing strife related to the CDC’s handling of public health measures has further intensified following this disturbing event.
FAQ
What happened during the shooting near the CDC and Emory University?
A gunman, Patrick Joseph White, opened fire near Emory University and the CDC, leading to the death of Officer David Rose and several buildings being struck by bullets.
Who was the shooter?
The shooter was identified as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia.
What was the police officer’s name who was killed?
The officer was identified as David Rose, a 33-year-old who had been with DeKalb County police for less than a year.
Were there any injuries among CDC employees?
No injuries were reported among CDC employees or visitors during the incident; however, four individuals sought medical attention for stress and anxiety.
What actions are being taken following the incident?
The investigation is ongoing. The CDC is conducting a security assessment and has authorized remote work for staff on Monday.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | CVS at Emory Point, Atlanta |
| Shooting Time | 4:50 PM, Friday |
| Shooter’s Name | Patrick Joseph White |
| Police Officer Killed | David Rose, age 33 |
| Investigating Agencies | GBI, FBI, local law enforcement |
| Legal Status | Investigation ongoing |
| Victims’ Status | No reported injuries at CDC; four individuals treated for anxiety |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Emory University CDC Atlanta Shooting
- CNN: Atlanta CDC Emory University Shooting
- New York Times: Emory University CDC Shooting
- AJC: Shooter Killed Officer at Emory University CDC
- Fox 5 Atlanta: CDC Active Shooter Near Emory University
- Wikipedia: Active Shooter
- Google Search: Emory University shooting
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google News: Atlanta Shooting
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.
