Atlanta, August 13, 2025
News Summary
A tragic shooting incident at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta has led to the death of a police officer and the suspect. Following the attack, which involved nearly 500 rounds fired at the CDC, there have been renewed calls for stricter gun laws in Georgia. Advocates are demanding fundamental changes, including the establishment of red flag laws and enhanced gun safety measures to prevent future tragedies. The shooting’s aftermath has created significant turmoil within the community, highlighting urgent public health concerns related to gun violence.
Atlanta – On Friday, a shooting near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Headquarters in Atlanta has reignited calls for stricter gun laws in Georgia after the tragic death of a police officer and the shooter. The suspect, identified as Patrick Joseph White, fired nearly 500 rounds at the CDC campus, resulting in the death of DeKalb County police officer David Rose and White himself, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The attack was unprecedented in its intensity, with White reportedly targeting six buildings on the CDC campus and shooting through 180 windows. The frightening incident prompted lockdowns at both the CDC and nearby Emory University for several hours, as law enforcement responded to the dangerous situation. Local records indicate that prior to the shooting, police had received calls from White’s residence regarding suicidal ideations months earlier, raising questions about his mental health.
White had reportedly taken a weapon from a locked safe at his father’s home but returned it before launching the attack. According to the Cobb County Police records, there was a history of concerns involving White, further complicating the narrative of this tragic event. Following the shooting, health care workers and gun safety advocates have rallied in favor of more stringent gun laws, labeling gun violence as a public health crisis.
Advocates are specifically calling for fundamental changes such as the restoration of violence prevention funding, implementation of gun storage laws, and the establishment of red flag laws. These laws would allow for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or the public. A significant advocate in the state, highlighted the concerning statistic that gun violence has become the leading cause of death for children in Georgia, underscoring the urgent need for legislative action.
The aftermath of the attack has left many in the CDC community reeling. A former public health advisor expressed deep sorrow and anger over the violence and has called upon government officials to condemn such acts unequivocally. Additionally, during a public meeting, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners held a session to honor Officer Rose’s bravery and his commitment to public safety.
In the wake of the shooting, CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez acknowledged the turmoil experienced by staff members and the ongoing discussions around enhancing employee safety. Some staff voiced their dissatisfaction with the agency’s response, citing a lack of new information and limited opportunities for questioning during official meetings.
Investigators have determined that all firearms used in the shooting were illegally obtained from White’s father’s gun safe. This aspect has added a layer of complexity to the legislative discussions about gun safety, as authorities push for reforms to address the ongoing gun violence issue in the state.
Political leaders and local representatives have been called upon to support more robust legislation focused on improving gun safety in Georgia in light of this devastating event. The tragic shooting serves as a somber reminder of the challenges posed by gun violence and the pressing need to protect communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the shooting near the CDC?
The shooting was initiated by Patrick Joseph White, who fired nearly 500 rounds at the CDC campus, ultimately resulting in the deaths of Officer David Rose and White himself.
What were the immediate effects of the shooting?
The CDC and Emory University were placed on lockdown for several hours, and there have been renewed calls for tougher gun laws in response to the violence.
What measures are being advocated for after this incident?
Advocates are pushing for the restoration of violence prevention funding, implementation of gun storage laws, and establishment of red flag laws in Georgia.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | CDC Headquarters, Atlanta |
| Shooter | Patrick Joseph White |
| Fatalities | 2 (Officer David Rose, Patrick White) |
| Shots Fired | Nearly 500 |
| Buildings Targeted | 6 CDC buildings |
| Calls to Law Enforcement | Previous suicidal calls about White |
| Gun Laws Advocacy | Call for tighter regulations and red flag laws |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting Investigation in Southeast Atlanta
Tragic Shooting at CDC Headquarters Claims Officer’s Life
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
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- Wikipedia: Gun Control
- WSB Radio
- Google Search: gun safety laws
- CNN
- Google Scholar: gun violence prevention
- Georgia Recorder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: gun violence
- Instagram Post
- Google News: CDC 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.
