Tragic Shooting Near CDC Headquarters in Atlanta Claims Lives

On August 8, 2025, a shooting near the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta resulted in the deaths of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose and the suspected gunman, Patrick Joseph White. The incident has left the community in mourning and raised questions about security at critical public health institutions.

The attack began around 4:50 p.m. when White, a 30-year-old from Kennesaw, Georgia, opened fire outside the CDC campus, damaging multiple buildings. Officer Rose, a 33-year-old former Marine and recent police academy graduate, responded to the scene and was fatally shot. The shooter was later found dead on the second floor of a nearby CVS Pharmacy; authorities are investigating whether his death was self-inflicted or resulted from police gunfire. No civilians were injured during the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation.

The attack began when White fired multiple rounds at the CDC complex, causing visible damage to at least four buildings. Bullet holes were observed in windows across the campus. Officer Rose was critically injured upon arrival and later succumbed to his injuries at Emory University Hospital. The suspect was found deceased on the second floor of a CVS Pharmacy located across the street from the CDC campus. Authorities recovered a long gun and three additional firearms at the scene.

Officer Rose joined the DeKalb County Police Department in September 2024 and graduated from the police academy in March 2025. He was assigned to the North Central Precinct and was known for his dedication and professionalism. Prior to his law enforcement career, Rose served four years in the United States Marine Corps, including a deployment to Afghanistan. He is survived by his wife, two young children, and a third child expected later this year.

The shooting caused panic in the nearby community, including at a restaurant and a preschool near the scene. CDC staff were instructed to work remotely as a security review is conducted. Georgia officials, including Governor Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, commended the fast response of law enforcement. Governor Kemp stated, "Twice this week, deranged criminals have targeted innocent Georgians. Each time, brave first responders rushed toward the danger to subdue the shooter and save lives, reminding us of just how crucial they are."

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and authorities are conducting extensive evidence collection and interviews.

This incident underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers and the potential vulnerabilities of critical public health institutions. The attack has prompted discussions on security measures at federal facilities and the safety of personnel working in such environments. Additionally, the community's response highlights the broader societal impact of gun violence and the importance of mental health resources.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the national public health agency of the United States, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Its main goal is the protection of public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability. The CDC focuses on developing and applying disease control and prevention measures, especially for infectious diseases, foodborne pathogens, environmental health, occupational safety and health, health promotion, injury prevention, and educational activities designed to improve the health of United States citizens.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Officer Rose and reflects on the need for enhanced security measures to protect both public servants and citizens.