Tragedy Strikes Near CDC Headquarters: Officer Killed in Shooting Outside Emory University
- Natalie Frank
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
A community mourns as investigators work to uncover why gunfire erupted steps from one of the nation’s leading public health institutions
Natalie C. Frank, Ph.D August 9, 2025
ATLANTA — A quiet Friday afternoon near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters and Emory University’s campus turned into chaos when gunfire broke out, leaving a DeKalb County police officer dead and dozens sheltering in place.
Authorities confirmed that the fallen officer was David Rose, a devoted member of the DeKalb County Police Department, whose service, leadership, and dedication earned him deep respect within the community. He was mortally wounded while responding to an active shooter just before 5 p.m., and despite being rushed to a hospital in critical condition, he did not survive.
Police identified the suspected gunman as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White of Kennesaw, Georgia. According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), White died during the incident, likely from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. While the investigation remains active, officials have yet to identify a potential motive.
The first reports of shots fired came in around 4:50 p.m., triggering a shelter-in-place order at Emory University and an immediate lockdown at the CDC campus. Immediately, the University sent out a shelter in place alert which said, ""RUN. HIDE. FIGHT. Avoid the area." Within minutes, responding officers located the suspect inside the Emory Point CVS Pharmacy, directly across from the CDC building.
As police attempted to engage the suspect, gunfire was exchanged. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said the suspect fired multiple rounds toward CDC buildings, shattering windows and sending glass spraying the throughout the interior.
"There is extensive evidence to collect due to the complex scene. Numerous interviews are being conducted. This investigation will take an extended period of time," the GBI said in a statement.
Officer Rose’s death has left both the police department and the wider community grieving. In a statement, the DeKalb County Police Department said, "Officer Rose served DeKalb County with courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication. Even in the face of danger was he diligent in his duty to protect our community."
At a press conference, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson called it a “dark day” for the county. She stated that Rose leaves behind a pregnant wife and two children, underscoring the personal loss beyond the uniform.
During the shooting, 92 children were inside a day care center on the CDC grounds. Police later confirmed all were unharmed. Still, the incident caused widespread distress. Four individuals were taken to a hospital for stress and anxiety-related symptoms.
CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez addressed employees in a Saturday morning video call, expressing her concern for staff and assuring them of the agency’s support. While she confirmed damage to CDC buildings, she emphasized that law enforcement has not established a motive.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy sent an email to CDC employees, calling the attack “a reminder of the very human challenges public servants sometimes face, even in places dedicated to healing and progress.” He later posted on X, “We know how shaken our public health colleagues feel today. No one should face violence while working to protect the health of others. We are actively supporting CDC staff on the ground and across the agency. Public health workers show up every day with purpose — even in moments of grief and uncertainty.”
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement praising first responders for their bravery in confronting the shooter. “We ask that you join us in holding them in our prayers, along with those harmed this evening near the CDC Center,” Kemp wrote on X.
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also reacted, saying, “We’re horrified by the news out of Emory University and praying for the safety of the entire campus community.”
Federal and state agencies, including the FBI Atlanta field office and the GBI, are leading the investigation. The White House confirmed it was monitoring developments as they unfolded.
