The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) faced a tragic incident on Friday when a gunman attacked its campus. However, on Saturday, CDC leaders informed staff that the campus had reopened and discussed implementing enhanced security measures in response to the attack.
During a call with staff of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, emotional accounts of the event were shared, and concerns were raised regarding misinformation that may have influenced the shooter. Dr. Susan Monarez, the agency’s director, assured employees that a full security assessment would be conducted to ensure the safety and support of everyone returning to the campus.
An email sent to staff by Christa Capozzola, acting chief operating officer, confirmed that the CDC was the shooter’s target and revealed that the incident was a targeted attack related to Covid. The gunman was identified as Patrick Joseph White, a 30-year-old from Kennesaw, Georgia. Reports indicated that the shooter’s fixation on the Covid-19 vaccine and mental health issues may have been contributing factors to the attack.
Following the shooting, additional security teams were deployed on the CDC campus, although it was believed that the shooter acted alone. Law enforcement agencies are intensively monitoring all present and past threats to the CDC to ensure the safety of the staff.
Employees shared their harrowing experiences during the call, expressing concerns about similar situations in the future. The agency is offering liberal administrative leave to those affected and expanding mental health support through the Employee Assistance Program.
Questions were raised about Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s response to the crisis and the misinformation that may have fueled the attack. Dr. Monarez confirmed that CDC leaders were in communication with the Office of the Secretary and emphasized the dynamic nature of the situation.
Kennedy, who was in Alaska at the time of the shooting, expressed his sadness over the incident and pledged solidarity with the CDC family. Calls for Kennedy’s resignation from a group of terminated HHS employees were also reported.
The CDC campus has reopened, but significant damage occurred during the shooting and subsequent law enforcement operations. Efforts are underway to support the family of the officer who died during the attack, and security measures are being reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the call concluded, officials acknowledged the need to address security issues promptly and expressed their determination to overcome the challenges presented by the tragic event. Debra Houry, CDC’s deputy director for program and science and chief medical officer, expressed regret and determination to move forward from the incident.
