HHS Statement: Key Updates and Information
HHS Secretary Visits CDC After Officer’s Death in Shooting
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Atlanta, GA - August 11, 2025 – Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.today visited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta following a tragic shooting on Friday that claimed the life of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose. The visit underscored the deep sadness felt across the agency and the commitment to supporting both CDC personnel and Officer Rose’s family.
Showing Support for the CDC Community and Officer Rose’s Family
Secretary Kennedy toured the Roybal Campus, visibly assessing the damage caused by the gunfire. He observed shattered windows in multiple buildings,including the main guard booth,a stark reminder of the violence that occurred. Accompanying him were Health and human Services deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill and CDC Director Susan Monarez.
The Secretary then extended his condolences and support in person, visiting the DeKalb County Police Department to meet with Police Chief Greg Padrick. Most importantly, he met privately with officer Rose’s widow, offering his deepest sympathy and reaffirming the agency’s dedication to honoring Officer Rose’s bravery, sacrifice, and service.
“we are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting at CDC’s Atlanta campus that took the life of officer David Rose,” Secretary Kennedy stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “We stand with his wife and three children and the entire CDC family.” https://x.com/SecKennedy/status/1954197860754350238
Ensuring Safety and Support for CDC Personnel
The CDC is prioritizing the well-being of its employees in the wake of this traumatic event. Currently, the majority of CDC personnel assigned to the Roybal Campus are teleworking this week. This allows staff time to process the events and ensures a safe working habitat while additional safety and security measures are implemented.
These enhanced measures are being developed in close collaboration with law enforcement and security experts to prevent future incidents and provide a secure environment for all CDC employees. Details of these measures will be communicated directly to staff as thay become finalized.
Resources Available to CDC Staff and Families
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is actively providing support to CDC personnel and their families during this difficult time.This includes access to:
Employee Assistance Programs (eaps): Confidential counseling and support services are available to help employees cope with stress, grief, and trauma. Mental Health Resources: HHS is providing facts and access to a range of mental health resources, including crisis hotlines and online support groups.
Security Updates: Regular updates on security enhancements and safety protocols will be shared with all staff.
Grief Counseling: Specialized grief counseling services are being offered to those directly impacted by Officer Rose’s death.
The CDC and HHS recognize the profound impact this tragedy has had on the entire community and are committed to providing ongoing support and resources to help everyone heal and move forward.
Content Source: Office of Communications (OC), CDC (https://tools.cdc.gov/about/divisions-offices/oc.html)