Atlanta shooting – August 8, 2025 began at approximately 4:50 p.m. when a lone gunman opened fire outside the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on its Roybal Campus in northeast Atlanta. Multiple CDC buildings were struck by gunfire, sending employees scrambling for safety.
The attacker, armed with a long gun and additional weapons, moved quickly across the street to a nearby CVS pharmacy at Emory Point. In the exchange of gunfire, DeKalb County Officer David Rose, a Marine Corps veteran and recent police academy graduate, was fatally wounded. He was rushed to Emory University Hospital but did not survive.
The suspect was later found dead inside the CVS on the second floor. Authorities are still working to determine whether his death was self-inflicted or the result of police gunfire.
Impact and Emergency Response
- Damage to CDC facilities: Several CDC office buildings showed visible bullet holes and shattered glass.
- Daycare safety: More than 90 children inside the CDC daycare were unharmed after staff initiated lockdown protocols and kept them secure until reunification with parents.
- Public alerts: Emory University issued an immediate “Run, Hide, Fight” alert, locking down its campus until the all-clear was given.
- Community lockdown: Nearby businesses and residential areas were also advised to shelter in place during the incident.
Authorities and Leadership React
CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed deep sorrow for the attack on the agency’s campus and offered condolences to the family of Officer Rose. Local leaders, including Georgia’s governor and Atlanta’s mayor, praised the bravery of law enforcement officers who responded within minutes.
DeKalb County officials described Officer Rose as a dedicated public servant who gave his life protecting others. He leaves behind a pregnant wife and two young children, making the loss even more profound for the community.
Investigation and Possible Motive
Officials have not yet released a clear motive for the shooting. Early indications suggest the suspect may have believed he was suffering from a medical condition and blamed the COVID-19 vaccine for his health issues. Authorities are reviewing his background, social media posts, and possible connections to the CDC.
The ongoing investigation includes examining surveillance footage, witness statements, and ballistic evidence to piece together the shooter’s movements before and during the attack.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | August 8, 2025, around 4:50 p.m. |
| Location | CDC Roybal Campus & CVS at Emory Point, Atlanta |
| Victims | Officer David Rose (deceased) |
| Suspect | Deceased |
| Damage | Bullet impacts to multiple CDC buildings |
| Children Injured | None |
| Status | Investigation ongoing |
This event has shaken both the local community and those working at the CDC, highlighting the risks faced by first responders and the importance of rapid emergency protocols. As more facts emerge, the story will continue to develop.
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