US man attacks CDC HQ in Atlanta, fires 180 shots, kills police officer

A Georgia man fired 180 shots at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, killing a police officer and damaging four buildings. The attack, linked to vaccine misinformation, has sparked calls for stronger security as CDC staff work remotely amid heightened safety concerns.

A 30-year-old Georgia man, Patrick Joseph White, opened fire at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta on August 8, firing over 180 rounds and shattering about 150 windows, including “blast-resistant” glass. The attack killed police officer David Rose but caused no injuries among CDC staff.

White, who blamed the COVID-19 vaccine for his depression and suicidal thoughts, was stopped by CDC security before fleeing to a nearby pharmacy and continuing to fire shots. He later died, though it’s unclear whether from police gunfire or self-inflicted wounds.

The incident damaged four CDC buildings, with Building 21, housing CDC Director Susan Monarez’s office, hit the hardest. Staff were told to work from home, and calls have been made for stronger security, bulletproof glass, and improved evacuation plans.

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill, and Monarez toured the damaged site Monday. Kennedy, once a leader in the anti-vaccine movement, did not address media but met with the fallen officer’s widow.

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Union leaders say false rhetoric about vaccines is fueling hostility toward public health workers. Some CDC employees are now avoiding uniforms to stay less visible, citing fears of public confrontations.