Suspect Identified in CDC Shooting: Tragic Incident Claims Life of Atlanta Police Officer

ATLANTA (AP) — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has identified the shooter at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White from Kennesaw, Georgia. Sadly, Officer David Rose of the DeKalb County Police was killed during the incident on Friday.

White fired shots at the CDC from across the street, damaging at least four buildings and leaving bullet holes in windows. His attack resulted in a swift and large law enforcement response to one of America’s leading public health institutions. Eyewitness accounts and shared images reveal the extent of the damage and its impact on the busy site where scientists work on critical health projects.

The CVS pharmacy nearby remained closed on Saturday, showing signs of the violence with a bullet hole in its front door. Flowers were placed outside in remembrance.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens spoke about White, noting he was a “known person” with particular interests. The motive behind the shooting is still unclear.

According to law enforcement sources, White had a long gun and three other firearms were found at the scene. The circumstances of his death remain under investigation.

Officer David Rose, just 33 years old, was a former Marine and had earned respect for his commitment to duty. He leaves behind a wife and three children, including one unborn.

The investigation, led by the GBI, is ongoing and may take time due to the complexity of the scene and the amount of evidence to sort through. “We’re conducting numerous interviews,” an agency representative said.

In recent years, gun violence has become a pressing issue in America. According to the Gun Violence Archive, over 40,000 gun-related deaths were recorded nationwide in 2021. Each incident underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to combat violence.

As reactions flood social media, many are calling for deeper discussions about mental health and gun control. The devastating loss of Officer Rose has sparked conversations about how communities can better support their protectors and promote safety.

For more detailed statistics on gun violence in America, visit the Gun Violence Archive.

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