In a shocking turn of events, a Blackstone executive was killed during a mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, leaving the city and its business community reeling. The attack, which also claimed the lives of an NYPD officer and two other victims, erupted on Monday evening as workers were wrapping up their day in one of New York’s major office towers.
Authorities have identified the shooter as 27-year-old Shane Tamura from Las Vegas. He arrived at the scene just before 6:30 p.m., exiting a black BMW and carrying an M4 assault rifle. Security footage showed Tamura entering the building’s lobby, where chaos unfolded within moments. Dressed in body armor, he unleashed a hail of gunfire, first targeting and killing Officer Didarul Islam, 36, who was working a private security detail after hours. Islam, a father of two with a third child on the way, was recognized as a dedicated public servant who truly loved his city.
After the initial shots in the lobby, Tamura continued his brutal rampage—shooting a woman who tried desperately to find cover, then attacking a security guard by the elevators. He then made his way to the elevators and ascended to the 33rd floor, the offices of Rudin Management. There, he fatally shot another individual before ultimately turning the weapon on himself.
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Scene of Panic at Blackstone Headquarters
The attack triggered immediate panic among employees of Blackstone, NFL, and KPMG—all tenants of the prestigious 345 Park Avenue address. Workers barricaded office doors with furniture, desperate to shield themselves as gunfire echoed throughout the building. Witnesses reported hearing screams and seeing coworkers in business attire fleeing the scene or crouching behind makeshift barriers for safety.
The NYPD, SWAT, and New York State Police descended on the area within minutes, securing the site and moving people to safety in small, controlled groups. Offices were placed under lockdown, and the neighborhood was temporarily blocked off as authorities swept the building for any lingering threats.
Victims and Motive
Among the four killed was Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner, who was confirmed by the company to have died in the attack. Blackstone released a statement honoring LePatner’s leadership and devotion to her colleagues, emphasizing the deep loss felt across the organization. The identities of the other victims, aside from Officer Islam, have not yet been released to the public, out of respect for their families.
A fifth victim remains hospitalized in critical condition. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed that one of the league’s employees was among those injured, but is currently stable at a nearby hospital.
Police are still working to piece together the shooter’s motive. Initial findings suggest that Tamura may have intended to target the NFL’s offices but mistakenly exited the elevator at the wrong floor, arriving at the offices of Rudin Management instead. Authorities discovered multiple firearms and prescription medications in his vehicle and documented his history of mental health struggles. The tragic event underscores the ongoing debate over gun violence and workplace security in major U.S. cities.
Timeline of the Midtown NYC Shooting
Ongoing Investigation and Response
As the investigation continues, New Yorkers are left mourning the loss of dedicated individuals such as Wesley LePatner and Officer Islam. The NYPD and city officials have stressed the importance of allowing law enforcement to complete thorough family notifications before additional names or details are released.
Mayor Eric Adams called Officer Islam a “true blue hero” and recognized the broader impact felt throughout the city’s essential workforce. Business operations at 345 Park Avenue are currently suspended as law enforcement reviews evidence and supports those affected.
The Blackstone executive killed in the Midtown NYC shooting leaves behind a legacy of leadership, while the city grapples with the senselessness of the violence that unfolded at the heart of its financial district. As details emerge and healing begins, both survivors and the broader New York community are encouraged to share their thoughts and memories as part of the city’s collective resilience.
If you have thoughts to share or want to stay updated on new developments, please leave a comment below. Your voice and support matter as our city seeks comfort and understanding during this difficult time.