Suspected Gunman and Police Officer Both Killed in Deadly Shooting Outside CDC Headquarters in Atlanta

Suspected Gunman and Police Officer Both Killed in Deadly Shooting Outside CDC Headquarters in Atlanta

On Friday, August 8, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred near the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The incident resulted in the deaths of a DeKalb County police officer and the suspected gunman, leaving the community in shock and prompting widespread investigations.

Incident Overview

At approximately 4:50 p.m. local time, reports of an active shooter near the CDC campus led to immediate lockdowns at both the CDC and nearby Emory University. Responding officers found 33-year-old Officer David Rose critically injured; he later succumbed to his wounds at a local hospital. The suspected shooter, identified as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia, was discovered on the second floor of a CVS Pharmacy across from the CDC. It remains unclear whether White died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds or from police fire .

Officer David Rose: A Hero Remembered

Officer Rose, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who had joined the DeKalb County Police Department in March 2025, was known for his dedication and courage. He leaves behind a wife, two young daughters, and a third child on the way. His death has deeply affected the local community and law enforcement agencies .

The Suspect: Patrick Joseph White

White reportedly blamed the COVID-19 vaccine for his health issues, which may have influenced his actions. His father had contacted authorities earlier that day, expressing concerns about his son’s mental state and mentioning that White had become fixated on the vaccine. At the time of the incident, White was armed with multiple firearms and ammunition .

Impact on the Community

The shooting caused significant damage to several CDC buildings, with bullet holes reported in windows. Despite the severity of the attack, no civilians were injured, and 92 children present at a daycare center on the CDC campus were unharmed . The incident prompted a swift response from local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Ongoing Investigations

Authorities are continuing to investigate the motives behind the shooting. While initial reports suggest that White may have been influenced by personal grievances related to the COVID-19 vaccine, the full extent of his intentions remains under examination. Law enforcement agencies are conducting interviews and gathering evidence to understand the circumstances leading up to the tragic event .

Community Reactions

The shooting has elicited strong reactions from local and national leaders. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp praised the bravery of first responders and expressed condolences to the families affected. CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also extended their sympathies, emphasizing the resilience of public health workers and law enforcement in the face of such tragedies .

Conclusion

The events near the CDC headquarters have left a lasting impact on the Atlanta community and beyond. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the factors that led to the shooting and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved. The loss of Officer David Rose serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in their commitment to protecting the public