In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the public health community, Patrick White approached a neighbor on her porch last year, warning her about the dangers of coronavirus vaccines. He claimed these vaccines had harmed him and others, alleging a cover-up by authorities. On a fateful Friday afternoon, White unleashed a barrage of bullets at the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, forcing hundreds of employees into lockdown as chaos erupted around them. Tragically, both White and a responding police officer—a father of two with another child on the way—lost their lives in this incident.
Investigators have indicated that White specifically targeted the CDC due to his beliefs surrounding coronavirus vaccines, according to multiple CDC officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Although law enforcement has yet to publicly announce a definitive motive, the shooting has confirmed fears among public health officials that the backlash against their work during the pandemic could escalate to violence. Many health professionals have reported receiving death threats, especially those involved in implementing mandates for masking and vaccination.
In the aftermath of the shooting, anger has replaced shock among CDC employees. Many have expressed their frustration towards former President Donald Trump for failing to publicly condemn the attack, even as he invoked the assault of a former U.S. Army staffer to justify deploying troops in D.C. They feel overwhelmed by the derision they face from conservatives and anti-vaccine activists, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current Health and Human Services Secretary, who has made alarming claims regarding the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
In light of the shooting, Kennedy offered his condolences and stated on social media that “no one should face violence while working to protect the health of others.” He later visited the CDC headquarters, where bullet holes still pocked various buildings. During his visit, a group of current and former employees protested, holding signs that criticized him and lauded the vital work of the CDC. One scientist, Lauren Owens, stated, “I have never worked on anything nefarious. We are public servants.”
According to senior CDC officials, a staggering 181 rounds were fired during the attack, with nearly half aimed at a building housing administrative offices and the CDC director's office. The incident left over 150 windows shattered, illustrating the severity of the situation. Many employees believe that the sustained vilification of the CDC during the pandemic has led to this violent outburst, with a veteran official stating, “There is a direct line from the vilification of CDC during Covid and the deliberate lies and misinformation that continues today.”
Authorities have identified the gunman, Patrick White, as a 30-year-old resident of Kennesaw, Georgia. While details about his mental health remain undisclosed, neighbors described him as friendly and community-oriented, often seen mowing lawns and walking dogs. However, White's views on the coronavirus vaccine were extreme, blaming it for personal health issues. His conspiracy-laden beliefs were shared with neighbors in a manner that resembled a fervent missionary trying to save others from a perceived threat.
Kennesaw is known for its conservative values, with laws requiring households to own firearms. The community is represented by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a far-right lawmaker who has publicly criticized the CDC and questioned the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. The CDC maintains that these vaccines are safe and effective, yet public trust has waned, leading to low uptake of annual vaccines.
In an email addressing the shooting, Secretary Kennedy praised the CDC's mission. However, many employees felt his words rang hollow given ongoing budget cuts and the undermining of vaccine initiatives under his leadership. One CDC physician noted, “He’s constantly undermining our vaccine work,” highlighting the disconnect between Kennedy's statements and the realities faced by CDC staff.
As a memorial for the slain officer, David Rose, was established outside the CDC headquarters, employees reflected on the increased risks they face. Some have even considered removing CDC decals from their cars or avoiding wearing uniforms in public due to fear of backlash. The atmosphere of fear and uncertainty has cast a long shadow over the agency, prompting discussions about safety among employees.
The events surrounding the shooting at the CDC serve as a stark reminder of the challenges public health officials face, especially in a polarized environment. As the nation grapples with the implications of this violence, the question remains: how can public health agencies rebuild trust and ensure the safety of their employees while continuing their critical work?
