A shooting incident at 345 Park Avenue in Manhattan resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including the gunman, on the evening of September 25, 2023. The tragedy unfolded during rush hour, sending shockwaves through the bustling Midtown area, as witnesses reported hearing gunfire and glass shattering.
The shooter arrived at the skyscraper, which houses numerous prestigious businesses, including the headquarters of the National Football League, around 6:00 PM. He was seen entering the building while carrying an assault-style rifle and wearing sunglasses. According to retired NYPD Captain John Monaghan, the shooter displayed a “brazen” demeanor, indicative of someone who intended to kill.
Upon entering the building, the gunman first targeted Didarul Islam, an NYPD officer who was on duty to provide additional security. Surveillance footage captured the moment he shot Islam in the back. The shooter then turned his attention to others in the lobby, hitting a woman and another man before making his way towards the elevators.
According to New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the gunman fatally shot Aland Etienne, a security guard attempting to activate an alarm. Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as chaotic, with people running for safety as the sound of gunfire echoed throughout the building.
Emergency Response and Casualties
The NYPD’s 911 call center began receiving reports of an active shooter at 6:28 PM. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, where they found a scene of devastation. In total, two men and two women lost their lives, along with the shooter, marking this incident as New York City’s worst gun attack in 25 years. One additional victim, an NFL employee, was reported to be in serious condition.
The victims included Wesley LePatner, a senior managing editor at Blackstone, and Julia Hyman, an employee remembered by Cornell University, from which she graduated in 2020. Hyman was described as an “extraordinary student” by Kate Walsh, Dean and Professor at Cornell. LePatner was recognized for her leadership and contributions to various philanthropic endeavors, including her role on the board of directors of the UJA-Federation of New York.
Community Reaction and Investigation
As the investigation began, the community was left grappling with the aftermath of the shooting. A memorial formed outside 345 Park Avenue, where flowers and messages of condolence were placed in remembrance of the victims. The flags of the United States and New York State were lowered to half-staff in honor of those lost.
NYPD Commissioner Tisch praised officer Didarul Islam as a hero, stating that he made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the city. Islam was a father of two and was preparing for the arrival of another child. His family watched solemnly as his body was transported to a nearby medical facility.
Rudin Management, the building’s owner, expressed their sorrow over the loss of Etienne, calling him “beloved” by his colleagues. The union representing security officers, 32BJ SEIU, also paid tribute, highlighting the risks taken by those in the profession.
As investigations continue, authorities are focused on understanding the motivations behind the shooting and the events that led to this tragic incident. The New York community remains in mourning, reflecting on the impact of this violent act and the lives forever changed.