A Gunman's Obsession and a Slow Response

A man's strong belief in vaccine misinformation led to a violent act. Patrick Joseph White, 30, opened fire on the CDC in Atlanta. He was inside a CVS across from the CDC's main entrance.

• No CDC staff or civilians were hurt, but he damaged several buildings and killed a police officer.
• White was found dead in the store with five guns.
• It's unclear if he shot himself or was hit by police.

CDC: Target of False Information

The CDC has been a target of false information about vaccines. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the health secretary, has been a loud voice in spreading these false ideas.

• He has called Covid vaccines one of the "deadliest" shots, even though they are safe and effective.

Neighbor's Account

White's neighbor, Nancy Hoalst, said his belief in vaccine harm started suddenly about a year ago.

• She said he was deeply convinced that vaccines had hurt him and others.

Aftermath and Reactions

After the shooting, the Trump administration was quiet.

• The White House didn't comment, and Kennedy only shared a post from the CDC director.
• Later, after complaints, Kennedy shared a message of support for CDC employees.
• He said leadership was coordinating support for them.

Kennedy's Accusations

Kennedy has called the CDC "a cesspool of corruption" and accused its employees of hiding vaccine harm.

• Earlier this week, he canceled almost $500 million in grants for mRNA vaccine work.
• This is the technology used in some Covid shots.