Atlanta Police Officer Killed in Active Shooter Incident Near Emory University Campus
A police officer was killed Friday in a shooting incident near Emory University's Atlanta campus and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters. The suspected shooter, who had multiple firearms, including two handguns, a rifle, and a shotgun, fatally shot DeKalb County police officer David Rose, who had responded to the active shooter call near the CDC and Emory University.
Rose, a married father of two with a third child, had been serving with the Department since September, CNN news reported.
"He was committed to serving the community," said Interim Police Chief Greg Padrick, "At this time we're asking for the community's prayers for his family, his friends, his loved ones, and the entire DeKalb County Police Department family."
In a post on X, FBI Director Kash Patel commended Rose as a hero who "made the ultimate sacrifice."
"Pray for the family, friends, and colleagues of this hero who acted quickly to defend others and made the ultimate sacrifice," Patel wrote. "The FBI will offer them our full support."
Pray for the family, friends, and colleagues of this hero who acted quickly to defend others and made the ultimate sacrifice. The FBI will offer them our full support. https://t.co/Dq26aI0ZCi
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) August 9, 2025
The alleged shooter has been identified as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White of Kennesaw, GA The Georgia Bureau of Investigation revealed Saturday morning. White was found dead with gunshot wounds on the second floor of a building that houses a CVS Pharmacy, NBC News reported.
UPDATE - 8/9/2025:
Patrick Joseph White, age 30, of Kennesaw, GA is the suspected shooter in the incident that occurred on Clifton Rd. near the Emory University campus. pic.twitter.com/PTJKne67Cw— GA Bureau of Investigation (@GBI_GA) August 9, 2025
According to Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, the gunman died from his injuries at the scene.
White's motivation for the shooting was reportedly motivated by his hatred for vaccines, as he opened fire at least at the CDC buildings, CNN reported.
CDC Director Susan Monarez said that she is "heartbroken" by Friday's shooting incident and honored Rose for his sacrifice. She also commended local authorities for responding "immediately and decisively" and for "helping to prevent further harm to our staff and community."
"Our top priority is the safety and well-being of everyone at CDC," she added. "We are actively coordinating with federal, state, and local partners to fully investigate the shooter and this tragic crime."
"We are deeply grateful to Governor Kemp, Georgia residents, and the American people for standing with us during this difficult time."
"We at CDC are heartbroken by today’s attack on our Roybal Campus," CDC Director Susan Monarez said Friday night. https://t.co/8h7XrSQggD
— KING 5 News (@KING5Seattle) August 9, 2025
Friday's shooting comes days after a gunman shot and injured five soldiers after opening fire at Fort Stewart in Georgia. The suspect was later identified as 28-year-old Sgt. Quornelius Radford.
Prayer for Those Affected by Emory University
Lord,
We lift up the family of Officer David Rose to You in this time of deep sorrow. Comfort his wife, children, friends, and fellow officers with Your peace that passes all understanding. Thank You for his courage and willingness to protect others, even at the cost of his own life. We ask that You bring healing to all who were affected by this tragedy, and that Your justice and mercy would prevail in our communities.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Article: 5 Ways to Stay Spiritually Grounded When the Headlines Feel Heavy
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/JOHN FALCHETTO/Contributor
Originally published August 09, 2025.
