A high-rise office building in Manhattan, New York, turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy on 28 July (U.S. time), after a gunman opened fire in the lobby, killing four individuals – including a police officer – before taking his own life.
The incident occurred at 345 Park Avenue, a commercial building that houses major tenants such as the NFL and global accounting firm KPMG.
Gunman Opens Fire After Entering Building with Rifle
According to reports, the assailant, identified as 27-year-old Shane D Tamura from Las Vegas, arrived in New York after travelling cross-country. Authorities said he passed through several states, including Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and New Jersey, before arriving in Manhattan on the day of the attack.
Tamura, who has a known history of mental illness, reportedly parked his BMW outside the building and walked into the premises carrying an M4-style rifle. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts revealed he opened fire almost immediately upon entering, first targeting a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer in the lobby.
He subsequently fired at a woman who was attempting to shield herself behind a pillar and then indiscriminately sprayed bullets across the area. Another man present in the lobby was also shot.
Suspect Takes Own Life After Moving Through Building
After the initial shooting, Tamura called for an elevator. When it arrived, he allowed a woman already inside to leave unharmed, an action that authorities are still trying to understand.
He then ascended to a floor where Ruden Management, the building’s property manager, has offices. It was there that he continued firing before ultimately taking his own life. His body was later discovered by responding officers.
Fallen Officer Identified as Bangladeshi Immigrant
One of the victims was 36-year-old Didarul Islam, a NYPD officer who had served for three and a half years. Originally from Bangladesh, Officer Islam leaves behind a wife, two young children, and a third child on the way.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the shooter had died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the attack and why Tamura selected that particular building.
Tragedy Sparks Renewed Gun Control Debate
The horrific shooting has reignited public discourse around gun violence, mental health, and building security in the United States. With incidents like these occurring in commercial zones, workplace safety and urban policing strategies are once again under intense scrutiny.
As more details emerge, questions are being raised about the effectiveness of mental health interventions and gun control laws across state lines, especially considering the suspect’s extensive travel prior to the incident.
The NYPD and federal investigators continue to examine Tamura’s background, including his mental health history, digital footprint, and possible motivations for the targeted attack.