August 10, 2025

In a shocking incident just outside the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters near Emory University, a deadly shooting on Friday evening claimed two lives, including a brave police officer. The suspected shooter, 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia, was later found dead in a nearby building, CBS News reported. The drama unfolded just before 5 p.m. across from the CDC's main entrance. Bullets rained on at least four CDC buildings with visible marks on windows, sending a wave of fear across the campus. Fortunately, no CDC workers or visitors were hurt, said Director Susan Monarez. Emory University triggered an urgent “Active shooter” alert at their Atlanta campus, urging everyone to "RUN, HIDE, FIGHT." Police promptly arrived, calming the chaos by 6:30 p.m. At a nearby restaurant, the shock was palpable. Staff described the gunshots as "fireworks going off, one right after the other," said Brandy Giraldo, COO of The General Muir. Panicked people rushed past as others warned them about the shooter nearby. The motive behind White’s attack remains a mystery. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said authorities are still investigating, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation expects the probe to last a long time. Monarez announced Monday would be a remote workday to assess security thoroughly at the "Roybal Campus," calling the event an "attack." Chief Darin Schierbaum of Atlanta Police stated Patrick Joseph White was found on the second floor across the street from the CDC. Whether he died from police gunfire or took his own life is still unclear, although multiple firearms were seized from the scene. Tragically, the officer who lost his life, 33-year-old David Rose of the DeKalb County Police, was hailed as a hero. Interim Chief Greg Padrick praised Rose's commitment, while DeKalb’s CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson wrote sensitively about the officer’s widow and children, including one unborn. FBI Director Kash Patel honored Rose's sacrifice, saying he “made the ultimate sacrifice,” urging prayers for his loved ones. In a heartfelt message, Monarez thanked law enforcement who risked their lives and extended deepest condolences to Officer Rose’s family. Emory University’s leadership echoed gratitude, applauding police for their swift, brave actions that ensured campus safety. Presidents Leah Ward Sears and Gregory L. Fenves called their response “incredible bravery and selflessness.” Georgia Governor Brian Kemp sadly noted this shooting and a separate Fort Stewart attack, calling the shooters "deranged criminals". He praised first responders who “rushed toward the danger to subdue the shooter and save lives.” This sorrowful event leaves many questions unanswered but honors the courage of those who stood tall when danger struck near the CDC and Emory University.

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Tags: Patrick joseph white, Cdc shooting, Atlanta shooting, Police officer killed, Emory university, Georgia crime,