On a fateful Monday night, a gunman opened fire in a Midtown Manhattan office, resulting in four tragic deaths. All the victims have now been identified.
Among them were two women: one from Blackstone, a leading investment firm, and another, a recent Cornell University graduate. Additionally, two security personnel were killed, including a uniformed off-duty NYPD officer contributing to security duties under a city program. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams stated on “CBS Mornings” that the shooter, 27-year-old Shane Tamura from Las Vegas, left behind a note. In it, he seemed to attribute his traumatic head injury to the National Football League, which has their offices in the same building where the chaos unfolded. Authority figures believe Tamura directed his anger towards the NFL’s office located at 345 Park Ave.
Besides the NFL, the 44-story tower is home to several prominent firms, including KPMG and Blackstone, the latter being one of the top investment firms globally.
Now, let’s delve into who the victims were:
Didarul Islam, NYPD Officer
One of the victims was NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, serving in the Bronx’s 47th Precinct. He had been stationed at the office to provide extra safety measures as part of a special program that enables private enterprises to hire NYPD officers. Islam is survived by his wife, who is expecting, and their two young sons.
In the wake of this loss, Blackstone released a heartfelt statement expressing sorrow for all innocent lives affected. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also addressed the tragedy, honoring both the victims and first responders. She mandated that flags be flown at half-staff across New York.
Wesley LePatner, Blackstone Employee
Wesley LePatner, who had dedicated over ten years to Blackstone, was regarded as an invaluable team member. In a tribute, the company highlighted her exceptional qualities, noting her brilliance, generosity, and kindness. She was admired not only in her firm but also in the broader community.
A preliminary review indicated that as the gunman traversed the lobby of 345 Park Ave., LaPatner was hiding behind a pillar when she was fatally shot. LePatner was a senior managing director, with significant roles within the firm, and previously worked at Goldman Sachs as part of their real estate investment sector. A Yale alum, she not only contributed to her organization but also served on boards for respectable institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The Heschel School, where her child attends, released a statement reflecting on her profound impact, illustrating her as a unique leader endowed with wisdom and kindness.
Aland Etienne, Security Guard
Aland Etienne was working as an unarmed security officer for McLane Security Inc. at the time of the incident. As a union member since 2017, he was a known figure in the Park Avenue office complex and was prepared to perform security duties.
Julia Hyman, Cornell Graduate
Finally, Julia Hyman was employed at Rudin Management located on the 33rd floor. An alumna of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, she made a mark as highly valued team member. Her former professors remembered her warmth and determination, urging the community to rally around her family during this period of grief.
As the investigation continues, preliminary reports suggest the shooter mistakenly took the wrong elevator, which led him directly to Rudin Management instead of the NFL headquarters. The shooting has reopened discussions about security within office spaces.
Injured NFL Employee
In addition to the deceased, an employee from the NFL sustained serious injuries during the shooting and was taken to the hospital. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell assured that the injured colleague was in stable condition and emphasized the community support rallying around him during this challenging time.
For the near future, the NFL offices will remain shut down, with staff anticipated to continue working remotely at least until August 8. Goodell urged employees to support each other through this tragedy.
