In the incident, an individual discharged 180 rounds of ammunition, shattering approximately 150 windows, during an attack on the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
On Friday, August 8, 2025, a shooting incident occurred at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. The attack, which lasted approximately an hour, was carried out by 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia.
The timeline of events began just before 5 p.m., as White opened fire near the main entrance of the CDC's Roybal Campus. He fired over 500 rounds, shattering more than 150 windows across at least six buildings. CDC employees were immediately ordered to shelter in place.
The shooter, who was later found to have expressed suicidal thoughts and carried five guns, died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His motive appears to have been rooted in anti-vaccine beliefs, as documents found in his home showed his discontent and distrust of COVID-19 vaccinations.
The attack resulted in one fatality: DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose, who was killed responding to the incident. No CDC employees were physically injured.
The shooter caused extensive property damage, with over 150 windows broken across multiple CDC buildings and bullet marks on structures within the campus. The CDC has since moved most personnel to telework while conducting security assessments and enhancing safety measures before their return.
The CDC, Department of Health and Human Services, and American Federation of Government Employees have condemned the shooting, highlighting the role of vaccine misinformation in inciting violence. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who was a leader in a national anti-vaccine movement before being selected to oversee federal health agencies, visited the CDC and the family of the fallen officer to offer support.
In response to the incident, Dr. Jerome Adams, the U.S. surgeon general during President Donald Trump's first administration, emphasized the importance of health leaders appreciating the weight of their words. He warned that making false claims about vaccine safety and efficacy could cause unintended consequences.
Dr. Adams and Tim Young, a retired CDC employee, both expressed concern about the long-term impact of the attack on young scientists' willingness to work for the government. CDC Building 21, which houses the office of CDC Director Susan Monarez, was hit by the largest number of bullets in the attack.
The attacker's bullets pierced "blast-resistant" windows and shattered glass into numerous rooms. CDC security guards were able to stop the shooter before he could drive to a nearby pharmacy.
CDC employees have been advised to work from home this week. Users who wish to stay updated on breaking news can sign up for the Breaking news alerts Newsletter.
In summary, the shooting at the CDC headquarters involved a well-armed gunman motivated by anti-vaccine beliefs, leading to one fatality (a police officer), no CDC staff injuries, and significant property damage. Security and support measures are ongoing in response to this incident.
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