A tragic shooting unfolded near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) campus and Emory University in Atlanta on Friday, resulting in the death of a police officer and several CDC buildings being hit by gunfire.
Authorities have identified 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White as the gunman, who was reportedly fixated on the Covid-19 vaccine, his father told police.
The Shooting Incident
White opened fire on the CDC campus from inside a CVS pharmacy located across the street. Police say the gunman struck at least four CDC buildings, leaving bullet holes in windows but fortunately no civilian injuries.
The attack resulted in the death of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose, who was fatally shot after the gunman targeted him while turning away from the CDC campus. Officer Rose, a 33-year-old father of two with a third child on the way, succumbed to his injuries later at Emory University Hospital.
Before the shooting, White had tried to enter the CDC campus but was turned away by security guards. He was armed with five guns, including one long gun, when he launched the attack. Authorities later found White dead at the scene, though the cause of his death remains unclear—whether it was from officers or a self-inflicted wound.
Alleged Motive Behind the Shooting
While the exact motive for the shooting remains under investigation, law enforcement officials have suggested that White may have targeted the CDC due to his beliefs regarding the Covid-19 vaccine. According to reports, White’s father told police his son believed the vaccine made him suicidal and depressed.
Neighbors also described White as being fixated on anti-vaccine conspiracy theories. One neighbor, Nancy Hoalst, said that White “very deeply believed that vaccines had hurt him, and that they were hurting other people.”
CDC officials also indicated in an internal communication that the shooting appeared to be a “targeted attack on CDC related to Covid.”
Officer Rose’s Sacrifice
Officer Rose’s tragic death has deeply affected the community. In a tribute to the fallen officer, the DeKalb County Police Department expressed their admiration for Rose’s dedication.
“Even in the face of danger, he was diligent in his duty to protect our community,” the department said. DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson called it a “very dark day” for the community, acknowledging the loss of both a husband and father.
Impact on the Surrounding Area
The shooting sent shockwaves through the surrounding area, leading to lockdowns at both the CDC and nearby Emory University. Police responded quickly to the scene, and reports from nearby businesses described the sound of rapid gunfire, likened to “fireworks going off” by some witnesses.
During the incident, 92 children were in a daycare on the CDC campus. A mother whose child was there shared her anxiety over the situation, emphasizing the fear of such an event happening in front of young children. “It’s anxiety-inducing, it’s very scary,” she said.
Response from Officials
In the wake of the shooting, several local and state officials expressed their condolences and support for Officer Rose’s family. Georgia lawmakers, including Senator Raphael Warnock and Representative Mike Collins, acknowledged the loss and sent their prayers.
FBI Director Kash Patel also paid tribute to Officer Rose’s bravery, noting that the FBI would offer full support to the affected families and colleagues.
The tragic events have left the community shaken, as officials continue to piece together the details behind the shooting and the motivations that led to it.
