The director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has directly linked the spread of misinformation to last week’s deadly shooting at the agency’s Atlanta headquarters, calling the attack a “tragic consequence” of falsehoods undermining public health.
In a message to more than 10,000 staff on Tuesday, Dr Susan Monarez said, “The dangers of misinformation and its promulgation has now led to deadly consequences. I will work to restore trust in public health… through science, evidence, and clarity of purpose.”
Her remarks followed a chaotic all-staff meeting earlier in the day, cut short by technical problems, in which Monarez told employees, “Public health should never be under attack.”
Authorities say the gunman, identified as 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White, fired almost 500 rounds during Friday’s assault, killing DeKalb County police officer David Rose and striking CDC facilities with about 200 bullets. White, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, reportedly held deep resentment towards the COVID-19 vaccine, blaming it for health problems. Investigators recovered written materials from his home expressing distrust of vaccination, though no direct threats were made.
Neighbours told ABC News White had complained of severe weight loss, swallowing difficulties and gastrointestinal issues following his vaccination. The CDC has repeatedly stressed that serious side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are rare.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation recovered five firearms from the scene and said White’s parents, from whom he obtained the weapon used, are cooperating fully.
In her note, Monarez urged staff to “check in on colleagues” and assured them of increased security and mental health resources. “We will face the challenge together. United in purpose, grounded in truth, and committed to protecting one another,” she said.
The investigation, involving both state and federal agencies, remains ongoing.
