Atlanta, Georgia, August 11, 2025
News Summary
A shooting incident at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta led to the death of officer David Rose and intensified worries about employee safety amid vaccine misinformation. The shooter, Patrick White, linked his mental health issues to the COVID-19 vaccine, prompting calls for accurate public health information. CDC staff have been instructed to work remotely as safety assessments are planned. The incident highlights the growing threat public health officials face due to rising anti-vaccine sentiment.
Atlanta, Georgia — A shooting incident at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters resulted in the death of DeKalb County police officer David Rose and raised concerns about employee safety in connection with vaccine misinformation. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Patrick White, reportedly believed that his depression and suicidal thoughts were linked to the COVID-19 vaccine. During the shooting, White fired over 180 rounds at various CDC buildings before dying, although it remains uncertain whether his death was self-inflicted or due to police action.
Officer Rose, who dedicated his life to public safety, was fatally shot while responding to the incident and later succumbed to his injuries in a hospital. He is remembered as a dedicated officer and father of three. The tragic nature of his death has drawn attention to the dangers that public health officials now face, particularly amid the rising tide of vaccine misinformation.
Dr. Frita Fisher, a medical professional with firsthand experience in public health, emphasized that the shooting is a tragic consequence of the growing disinformation surrounding vaccines. She called for the public to seek accurate information about the efficacy of vaccines in preventing diseases. Dr. Fisher completed her medical training at Emory University, close to the incident, and regularly visited the CDC during her studies.
White’s actions were reportedly premeditated; he attempted to access the CDC before firing from a nearby CVS pharmacy. Authorities note that he was armed with five firearms, including at least one long gun. The shooting caused extensive damage to the CDC’s premises and has raised considerable alarm regarding the safety of employees at the agency.
In the wake of the shooting, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited the CDC to express support for its employees, stating they are committed to public health and not the enemy. However, some CDC staff expressed discontent with Kennedy’s visit due to his history of spreading anti-vaccine rhetoric, which many believe has contributed to the current hostile climate towards public health officials. Kennedy tweeted condolences for officer Rose’s family and condemned the attack on public health workers.
After the incident, CDC leadership informed staff that the attack was both targeted and deliberate. They also announced plans for a security assessment to ensure the safety of employees amid ongoing fears and feelings of vulnerability following the shooting. Staff members have reported mounting hostility towards them as public health officials, a sentiment that has been exacerbated by the climate of vaccine misinformation.
Following the tragedy, employees have been instructed to work remotely as a precautionary measure, reflecting the increased concern for their safety. The CDC, which has experienced significant financial strain and staffing losses in recent years, is now facing even greater hurdles as it grapples with both budget cuts and employee safety.
Investigation into White’s motivations and connections to vaccine misinformation is ongoing. Authorities found medication for schizophrenia in his home, but the majority of mental health patients are not violent. White reportedly engaged in discussions with neighbors about his distrust of COVID-19 vaccines and had sought mental health support prior to the shooting, highlighting the complicated relationship between mental wellness and public health debates.
The unfortunate incident at the CDC not only underscores the pressing issue of vaccine misinformation but also raises critical questions about the safety of those working tirelessly to uphold public health. The developing narrative surrounding mental health, misinformation, and violence continues to draw scrutiny as the investigation unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What led to the shooting at the CDC headquarters? The shooter, Patrick White, linked his depression and suicidal thoughts to the COVID-19 vaccine and fired upon the CDC building, resulting in the death of officer David Rose.
- Who was the victim of the shooting? DeKalb County police officer David Rose was fatally shot while responding to the incident.
- What were the motives behind the shooter’s actions? Investigators are examining White’s motivations, particularly in relation to vaccine misinformation and his mental health history.
- How has the CDC addressed employee safety following the shooting? The CDC has instructed staff to work remotely and plans to conduct a security assessment to ensure employee safety.
- What has been the reaction from public health officials regarding the incident? Public health officials have expressed sadness and concern over the rising hostility towards vaccine information and the dangers faced by those in the field.
Key Features of the CDC Shooting Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | CDC Headquarters, Atlanta, Georgia |
| Victim | DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose |
| Shooter | Patrick White |
| Weapons Used | Five firearms including long guns |
| Shots Fired | Over 180 rounds |
| Investigative Focus | Mental health and vaccine misinformation |
| Employee Action | Remote work initiated for staff |
| Agency Response | Security assessment planned |
| Historical Context | CDC facing budget cuts and staffing losses |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Shooting Near CDC and Emory University Claims Officer’s Life
Tragic Active Shooter Incident at Emory University
Additional Resources
- AP News: CDC Shooting Incident
- Wikipedia: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- ABC News: Suspected Gunman CDC Shooting
- Google Search: CDC Shooting Incident
- NBC News: Atlanta CDC Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Health
- CNN: Atlanta CDC Shooting
- Google News: Public Health Officers Violence
- The Guardian: Atlanta CDC Shooting
- Google Scholar: Vaccine Misinformation
- Fox News: Father of CDC Gunman
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.
