New York City – A shooting at a Midtown Manhattan office building left four people dead, including a police officer, on Monday evening. The suspect, identified as Shane D. Tamura, 27, reportedly used a high-powered rifle during the attack and later died from a self-inflicted wound, according to police reports. Among the deceased are three civilians, with a fourth individual hospitalized in critical condition.
The shooting unfolded just before 6:30 p.m. when video footage showed Tamura exiting a black BMW parked on Park Avenue. He entered the 44-story building at 345 Park Ave. with an M4 rifle and began shooting almost immediately. The first victim, a uniformed NYPD officer, was providing security as part of a private detail when he was targeted.
Witnesses and police reports indicate that chaos ensued as multiple 911 calls reported an active shooter within the building. Tamura advanced through the lobby, firing indiscriminately. A woman seeking cover behind a pillar and a security guard hiding under a desk were among the initial victims. Afterward, the suspect traveled to the 33rd floor, where he continued the rampage, eventually taking his own life in a nearby hallway.
One of the victims was Officer Didarul Islam, 36, a father of two young sons and a dedicated member of the NYPD for four years. He was known for his character and commitment to service, as noted by Mayor Eric Adams, who expressed condolences and praised Islam’s bravery. The other victims included a 46-year-old security guard, Aland Etienne, and two employees from the building’s tenants, Wesley LePatner of Blackstone and Julia Hyman from Rudin Management, aged 43 and 27, respectively.
Investigators have suggested that Tamura might have targeted the NFL offices located in the same building. A note found in his possession indicated he believed he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain condition often linked to head injuries sustained in sports. The note expressed a plea for his brain to be studied, hinting at deep-seated grievances against the NFL.
Prior to the attack, Tamura traveled across several states, culminating in his arrival in New York City. Police discovered items in his vehicle that included a rifle case and ammunition. Reports indicate that the rifle used in the attack was obtained legally from a supervisor at the casino where he worked.
Officials across New York have denounced the violence, with Governor Kathy Hochul calling for stricter gun control measures. Hochul stated that although New York has some of the most stringent gun laws in the country, they fall short when it comes to preventing such tragic incidents. She urged Congress to take immediate action to ban assault weapons and combat gun violence.
As the city grapples with this tragedy, a vigil was held in Bryant Park to honor the victims, illustrating the profound impact of the shooting on the community. The emotional gathering served as a reminder of the lives lost and the urgent need for change amid an ongoing national conversation about gun violence and public safety.