A 27-year-old gunman wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire inside a high-rise building in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, killing at least five people — including a New York City police officer — before taking his own life.
The suspect, identified as Shane Tamura of Las Vegas, stormed the 44-story building at 345 Park Avenue just before 6:30 p.m. with a semiautomatic rifle. The building houses major corporate offices, including Blackstone and NFL headquarters.
Shooter Opened Fire in Lobby and Upper Floors
According to the New York Post, Tamura began shooting on the street before fleeing into the office tower. Witnesses described the sound as a “barrage of shots” resembling automatic gunfire.
Tamura made his way to the 33rd floor, where he barricaded himself and later died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
NYPD Officer Among the Dead
The NYPD confirmed that one of the victims was a police officer who had been working a paid detail at the building. He was initially listed in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that the scene had been contained and that Tamura was believed to be acting alone.
“The scene has been contained and the lone shooter is dead,” Tisch wrote.
Additional Victims, Motive Still Under Investigation
At least four civilians were killed, and others were injured in the attack. A video taken by a bystander showed CPR being performed on one of the victims outside the building.
Surveillance footage circulating online shows Tamura, dressed casually and carrying a rifle, walking toward the building before the rampage.
Some unverified reports on social media claimed Tamura shouted “Free Palestine” during the shooting. However, the NYPD has not confirmed any political motive at this time.
Another man, seen wearing a “Palestine” shirt, was reportedly taken into custody at the scene, but officials have not linked him to the shooting.
Manhattan on Lockdown Amid Level 3 Police Response
In response to the shooting, the NYPD initiated a Level 3 Mobilization, with bomb squad and FBI agents swarming the area.
Officers with rifles and tactical gear flooded the intersection of 51st Street and Park Avenue, and the building was locked down as police cleared each floor.
Shooter Identified as Shane Tamura
Authorities confirmed the shooter was Shane Tamura, 27, from Las Vegas, Nevada. No prior criminal record has been reported. Tamura was heavily armed and wore body armor, indicating premeditation.
City Reeling Despite Strict Gun Laws
New York has some of the strictest gun control laws in the country, yet this high-profile shooting occurred in broad daylight in one of the city’s most secure areas.
