Gunfire near CDC HQ in Atlanta

A gunman opened fire near CDC headquarters in Atlanta, killing a police officer, with investigators weighing possible links to vaccine misinformation and funding cuts.

CDC shooting tests resilience of public health funding and political landscape

Friday afternoon, a gunman opened fire from across the street at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, firing at least four buildings and leaving more than 40 bullet holes. DeKalb County police officer David Rose was killed; the shooter died inside a CVS store across from the CDC. About 800 CDC staff members were nearby and later joined a Zoom call to discuss the trauma.

Investigators have not yet confirmed a motive. Law enforcement sources say the suspect may have targeted the agency over health concerns he blamed on the Covid vaccines. The attack comes as the CDC faces funding cuts and political pressure tied to vaccine misinformation. The agency said staff will work remotely on Monday while a security assessment is conducted.

The shooting foregrounds how public health work sits at the intersection of science and politics. Funding and policy fights around vaccines have created a climate where health institutions are scrutinized and sometimes vilified, increasing risks for workers and slowing critical responses. The incident could worsen staff anxiety and accelerate turnover at a time when the CDC is already under strain.

Leaders now face the task of protecting employees while maintaining clear, trustworthy public messaging. Strengthening security, expanding mental health support for staff, and countering misinformation without compromising science will be essential as the agency navigates a charged political environment.

Highlights

The coming weeks will test how the CDC and its partners protect workers and communicate in a charged political climate.