In a shocking episode of violence at a Manhattan office tower Monday, four people were killed and one injured after a gunman opened fire in what authorities now believe was a targeted attack against the National Football League.
The shooting, which took place at 345 Park Avenue—home to the NFL’s headquarters—has raised questions about mental illness, and accountability.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday that investigators “have reason to believe” the shooter, identified as Shane Tamura, had intended to attack the NFL. “It appears as though he was going after the employees of the NFL,” Adams said, citing a suicide note left behind by Tamura that revealed a disturbing fixation on the league and a belief he had developed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition tied to repeated head trauma.
Though Tamura played only high school football in Los Angeles and never made it to the collegiate or professional level, his note referenced infamous former NFL player Terry Long, who committed suicide after battling brain injuries. “Terry Long football gave me CTE and it caused me to drink a gallon of antifreeze,” Tamura wrote, as reported by the New York Post. He added chillingly, “You can’t go against the NFL, they’ll squash you,” before pleading, “Study my brain please. I’m sorry. Tell Rick I’m sorry for everything.”
Tamura, who had a documented history of mental health issues, died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after the attack. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that Tamura’s record included previous encounters tied to psychological concerns.
The gunman reportedly attempted to reach the NFL’s floor but instead entered the 33rd floor, which houses the real estate firm Rudin Management. There, he opened fire.
Among the victims was 36-year-old NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who authorities say was not on duty at the time, and Wesley LePatner, an executive at Blackstone. An NFL employee was also critically injured.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement Tuesday expressing concern and support for the victims and their families. “As has been widely reported, a gunman committed an unspeakable act of violence in our building at 345 Park Avenue. One of our employees was seriously injured in this attack. He is currently in the hospital and in stable condition. NFL staff are at the hospital and we are supporting his family.”
Former President Donald Trump weighed in on the tragedy on Truth Social, offering his condolences and strong backing for law enforcement. “I have been briefed on the tragic shooting that took place in Manhattan, a place that I know and love,” Trump wrote. “My heart is with the families of the four people who were killed, including the NYPD officer who made the ultimate sacrifice. God Bless the New York Police Department, and God Bless New York!”
While Mayor Adams urged caution as the investigation unfolds, the event has already sparked new debate over the NFL’s role in concussion-related trauma, the limits of mental health treatment, and the vulnerabilities in building security—even in the heart of Manhattan’s elite business district.
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