Patrick Joseph White has been identified as the suspect involved in the shooting near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta. The tragic incident unfolded on the afternoon of August 8, 2025, resulting in the death of a DeKalb County police officer, David Rose, and the suspect, Patrick Joseph White, who was found deceased at the scene. This article provides a detailed overview of the latest developments surrounding the Emory University-CDC shooting suspect, Patrick Joseph White.
On the afternoon of August 8, multiple reports of gunfire emerged near the CDC headquarters and Emory University’s Atlanta campus, prompting an immediate lockdown of both the university and the CDC’s Roybal campus. Authorities responded swiftly to the active shooter alert, which was issued at approximately 4:50 p.m. The suspect was located on the second floor of a building housing a CVS Pharmacy across from the CDC campus. The exchange of gunfire between responding officers and the suspect resulted in the fatal shooting of Officer David Rose, who was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities confirmed that Patrick Joseph White, aged 30 and from Kennesaw, Georgia, was the shooter and died during the incident, with indications that the gunshot wound might have been self-inflicted.
The shooting caused significant disruption in the area, including glass windows shattered at the CDC building due to gunfire. Emergency protocols swiftly placed over 90 children attending a daycare center on the CDC campus into safety. Fortunately, no civilians were physically harmed by gunfire, though four individuals were treated for stress and anxiety following the incident. Law enforcement agencies from various jurisdictions, including the FBI, Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), and multiple police departments, mounted a rapid and coordinated response to secure the scene and investigate the shooting.
In the aftermath, Emory University and the CDC expressed their deep sorrow. The CDC Director, Dr. Susan Monarez, stated on social media the heartbreak felt by the agency and emphasized the priority of staff safety and well-being amid ongoing coordination with federal and state partners. Emory University assured its community of increased police presence and asked everyone to avoid the area until an official all-clear was given. Monday following the incident was designated a remote workday for CDC employees to allow for recovery and investigation processes.
Further details about Patrick Joseph White emerged, revealing he had been previously known to authorities and might have harbored grievances related to illness, possibly blaming the COVID-19 vaccine. The suspect’s father reportedly contacted law enforcement before the shooting due to concerns about his son’s mental health. While authorities continue to investigate his motives in detail, the investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with officials acknowledging the complexity and length of the inquiry due to the extensive evidence and witness interviews being conducted.
The slain officer David Rose was a 33-year-old member of the DeKalb County Police Department and a former U.S. Marine. Rose was remembered by local officials and the community for his dedication, bravery, and service. He leaves behind a pregnant wife and two children. His heroic response to the active shooter situation is being honored as a testament to his commitment to protecting the community.
The entire incident is still under active investigation by the GBI, with assistance from other agencies including the ATF and FBI. Law enforcement officials have stressed the need for patience as they work through the complexities of the case. The area surrounding Emory University and the CDC was closed for several hours but has since been cleared, with normal activities slowly resuming.
This tragic event highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face in their line of duty and the importance of rapid, coordinated responses to active shooter situations on and near large institutional campuses. As the investigation progresses, further updates are expected to shed light on the underlying motivations and provide closure to the families and communities affected.
Stay informed and share your thoughts on this critical event as we continue to follow developments related to the Emory University-CDC shooting suspect, Patrick Joseph White.