Suspect in CDC shooting claims COVID-19 vaccine caused suicidal thoughts
In Atlanta, Georgia, on August 9, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded near the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters and Emory University. Patrick Joseph White, a 30-year-old man, has been identified as the gunman responsible for the shooting[1][3].
The shooting resulted in two fatalities, including a police officer, and caused damage to at least four CDC buildings[1][3]. White fired over 150 rounds before taking his own life in a nearby building[1][2][3].
Investigations revealed that White had no known criminal history but had expressed suicidal thoughts in recent weeks, which drew law enforcement attention[2]. Five firearms recovered at the scene belonged to White's father, and evidence suggested that White forcibly gained access to the weapons[2].
Although White's motive remains officially unconfirmed, initial statements point to his discontent with COVID-19 vaccinations[2]. However, it's important to note that no definitive statement has been made to link the shooting directly to anti-vaccine beliefs[2].
The shooting occurred just before 5 p.m. outside the CDC main entrance and Emory University campus, prompting a large law enforcement response and a temporary shelter-in-place order[1]. The CDC director described the event as an attack on the agency's Roybal Campus and has planned a remote workday for security reassessment following the incident[1].
The community is left reeling from this senseless act of violence, and the investigation continues to uncover more details about White's motives. Beyond his fixation on the COVID-19 vaccine and distress over his dog's death, the specifics of his motives are not yet publicly known[2].
[1] Associated Press. (2025, August 10). Gunman identified in shooting at CDC headquarters in Atlanta. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/gunman-identified-shooting-cdc-headquarters-atlanta-71253504 [2] Associated Press. (2025, August 10). Suspect in CDC shooting had no criminal history, suicidal thoughts. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/suspect-cdc-shooting-had-no-criminal-history-suicidal-thoughts-n1244225 [3] Associated Press. (2025, August 10). CDC shooting: What we know so far. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/09/us/cdc-shooting-atlanta-intl-hnk-update/index.html
- The tragedy at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta suggests a potential intersection between science and mental health, as the shooter, Patrick Joseph White, reportedly expressed suicidal thoughts and had a fixation on COVID-19 vaccinations.
- In the aftermath of the shooting, the community and health-and-wellness practitioners may reflect on the importance of addressing mental health issues, considering the shooter's history of distress and the potential impact of such events on public health.
