Manhattan Mass Shooting: Hero Guard Aland Etienne Remembered Among Park Avenue Victims

A senseless act of violence shattered Monday evening’s rush hour in Midtown Manhattan, leaving four dead and a city grappling with grief. The Manhattan mass shooting unfolded at 345 Park Avenue around 6:30 p.m. when 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura, armed with an M4 rifle, stormed the skyscraper. Among the victims was Aland Etienne, an off-duty NYPD officer working as a security guard, hailed as a hero for his courage during the attack.

What Happened in the Park Avenue Shooting?

Shane Tamura entered the building’s lobby and opened fire, then proceeded to the 33rd floor, where he fatally shot three civilians and Officer Etienne before turning the gun on himself. Eyewitness News reported panic as police evacuated occupants amid the chaos. Tamura, who had a documented history of mental health struggles, allegedly intended to target the NFL’s offices but took the wrong elevator. The attack ended with his suicide on the 33rd floor. Victims included Julia Hyman, Wesley Lepatner, and Didarul Islam, alongside Etienne.

Aland Etienne: A Dedicated Protector

Etienne, 37, was a Brooklyn native raised in a Haitian-American household. He served with the NYPD for years before transitioning to private security at 345 Park Avenue. Union president Manny Pastreich of 32BJ SEIU confirmed Etienne’s role, stating he “took his job duties extremely seriously.” Colleagues described him as calm, disciplined, and deeply committed—a man who volunteered for tough shifts and checked on coworkers during overnight hours.

Tributes and Legacy

Etienne leaves behind his wife, Marie, and two children, ages 8 and 5. Neighbors recalled his devotion to family and community, coaching youth sports and participating in local events. NYPD Commissioner Joanna Higgins honored him: “Officer Etienne served with courage, both in uniform and out. His loss is deeply felt.” Social media tributes echoed this sentiment, with one colleague writing, “He made us feel safe. This loss is unreal.”

Investigation and Broader Impact

Authorities continue investigating Tamura’s motives, emphasizing his mental health history. The tragedy has reignited debates over gun laws and security protocols in public spaces. Mayor Eric Adams called for unity, while city officials pledged support for victims’ families. Etienne’s union highlighted his heroism, noting he confronted danger to protect others.

As Manhattan mourns, Aland Etienne’s sacrifice underscores the bravery of those who stand between chaos and safety. His story—a father, officer, and guardian—demands more than grief; it calls for action to prevent such tragedies. Support local victim funds and advocate for mental health reform in his memory.

Must Know

Q: Who was Aland Etienne?
A: Aland Etienne, 37, was an off-duty NYPD officer working as a security guard at 345 Park Avenue. A Haitian-American from Brooklyn, he was a devoted father and respected professional praised for his calm leadership.

Q: What sparked the Manhattan mass shooting?
A: Shooter Shane Tamura, 27, entered the building with an M4 rifle, targeting the lobby and 33rd floor. Motives remain under investigation, though he had documented mental health issues.

Q: How many died in the Park Avenue attack?
A: Four victims were killed: Etienne, Julia Hyman, Wesley Lepatner, and Didarul Islam. Tamura died by suicide.

Q: How is NYC responding to the shooting?
A: Officials have pledged support for families and renewed focus on gun violence prevention. Etienne’s union, 32BJ SEIU, is organizing memorial services and victim assistance.

Q: Did Aland Etienne have family?
A: Yes. He is survived by his wife, Marie, and two young children. Friends describe him as a hands-on father deeply engaged in his community.

Q: What’s known about shooter Shane Tamura?
A: The 27-year-old had mental health struggles and mistakenly targeted the wrong floor. Authorities confirmed he used an M4 rifle before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot.