CDC Headquarters Targeted in Shooting, Sparks Calls for HHS Secretary Kennedy’s Resignation
Atlanta, GA – August 9, 2025 – A shooting targeting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, on Friday, August 8th, has left one law enforcement officer dead and prompted a wave of concern and calls for the resignation of Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary Xavier Becerra.the incident,which involved gunfire directed at CDC buildings from across the street,has raised questions about security protocols and the climate of hostility towards public health officials.
The shooter,armed with five firearms including a long gun,initially attempted to gain access to the CDC campus but was intercepted by security personnel. Failing to enter the secure area, the individual then drove to a nearby CVS Pharmacy and opened fire on the CDC buildings, causing damage to at least four structures. Details released by law enforcement officials indicate the shooting occurred after the initial attempt to breach the CDC perimeter.
The fallen officer has been identified as a member of the Federal Protective Service (FPS), the agency responsible for securing federal facilities. Details regarding the officer’s name are being withheld pending notification of family.
Following the incident, HHS Secretary Becerra, who was in Alaska meeting with tribal and state leaders, released a statement expressing his sadness and reaffirming the commitment to public health. He also emailed all HHS staff, offering prayers to the CDC community and emphasizing unity. Notably, shortly before the statement regarding the shooting, Becerra posted photos on his personal X account documenting a fishing trip with members of the Cook Inlet Tribal Council.During a call with CDC staff on Friday, HHS officials confirmed ongoing communication with the Office of the Secretary and promised further updates. Agency leaders acknowledged the significant impact of the event on the campus habitat, stating, “It’s important for us to recognize that the campus is not going to feel ready to get back to.” Facilities sustained damage during the shooting and subsequent law enforcement efforts to secure the area.
the shooting has ignited existing tensions between the CDC and some factions critical of public health measures. “Fired But Fighting,” a group comprised of HHS employees terminated during the Trump administration’s workforce reductions, issued a statement Friday demanding Becerra’s resignation. The group alleges that Becerra is “directly responsible for the villainization of CDC’s workforce through his continuous lies about science and vaccine safety, which have fueled a climate of hostility and mistrust.” This statement highlights a long-standing narrative of distrust directed towards public health agencies, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Agency officials have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the resignation calls. They did announce plans to collect donations to support the family of the deceased FPS officer. The call concluded with officials stating their immediate need to participate in a security briefing.
CDC Deputy Director for Program and Science and Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry expressed the agency’s collective emotions, stating, “I am sorry this has happened. We’re mad this has happened.”
Context: The Increasing Threat to Public Health Workers
This incident underscores a growing trend of threats and violence directed towards public health officials and institutions. During the COVID-19 pandemic,the CDC and other public health agencies faced unprecedented levels of harassment,intimidation,and even death threats from individuals opposed to public health measures like mask mandates and vaccinations. The Department of Justice reported a significant increase in threats against federal employees during this period, with public health officials being a particularly targeted group.
The CDC, established in 1946 as the Communicable Disease Center, plays a critical role in protecting public health and safety through disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion. The agency’s headquarters in Atlanta is a major research and operational center, employing thousands of scientists, researchers, and public health professionals. The security of this facility, and the safety of its personnel, is paramount to the nation’s ability to respond to public health emergencies.
This shooting serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing public health agencies and the need for increased security measures and a renewed commitment to fostering a climate of respect for public health professionals. The long-term impact of this event on the CDC workforce and its ability to carry out its vital mission remains to be seen.
Key additions/details not in the original article:
Location Specificity: Explicitly states atlanta, GA as the location.
Officer Identification: Mentions the officer was with the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and that their name is being withheld.
Weapon Details: Specifies the shooter was armed with five firearms, including a long gun.
Past Context: Provides background on the CDC’s founding and its role.
Broader Trend: Connects the incident to the larger trend of threats against public health workers, referencing DOJ reports.
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