Cause of Death Confirmed for Park Avenue Shooter

Background on the Shooting and Suspect

A three-page note was discovered in the wallet of a suspect who opened fire in a midtown Manhattan office building, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including an NYPD officer, and himself. Officials involved in the investigation have revealed that this document may provide insight into the motive behind the attack. The gunman, identified as 27-year-old Shane Tamura from Las Vegas, had a documented history of mental health issues.

During a press conference held the night of the incident, law enforcement officials shared details about Tamura’s background. The note found at the scene expressed his anger over the possibility that his mental illness could be linked to his participation in football during his youth. The Park Avenue location targeted by Tamura is home to the NFL’s corporate offices, which investigators are currently examining as a potential motive.

Insights from the Note

The note specifically mentions chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with repetitive head trauma. Symptoms include cognitive impairment, mood changes, and behavioral issues, among others. CTE can only be diagnosed through an autopsy, and it is often linked to athletes who have experienced repeated concussions.

One quote from the note reads, “CTE, study my brain please. I’m sorry.” It also references former Pittsburgh Steelers lineman Terry Long, who died by suicide in 2005. A revised death certificate indicated that football-related brain injuries contributed to his death. The note warns against opposing the NFL, suggesting that the organization would "squash you." Another line accuses the NFL of concealing the dangers of brain injuries to maximize profits, claiming it failed its players.

Additional Findings and Statements

Investigations into Tamura’s home in Las Vegas uncovered a second note, similar in tone to the one found in New York City. During an interview on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Mayor Eric Adams addressed the possible link between the note and the targeting of the NFL offices. He noted that Tamura was attempting to target the NFL headquarters but mistakenly entered the wrong elevator banks. Adams emphasized that the NYPD found an additional weapon in a car parked outside the building.

The medical examiner’s office has confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted on Tamura, as is standard procedure. The results of the examination will be released later. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell responded to the shooting in a message to employees, expressing concern for an injured employee and announcing increased security measures at the affected building.

Victims and Their Stories

Three victims have been publicly identified. Among them is an NYPD officer, Didarul Islam, who was killed while working a paid detail at the building on his day off. He leaves behind two young boys and his wife, who is pregnant with their third child. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described him as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Another victim was Wesley LePatner, an executive with Blackstone real estate. The company issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over his death, highlighting his qualities as a beloved colleague. A lobby security guard was also among the casualties, along with a Blackstone executive.

Details of the Attack

Surveillance footage showed a man exiting a double-parked BMW carrying an M4 rifle before entering the building. He immediately opened fire on an NYPD officer and shot a woman trying to take cover. The man then sprayed the lobby with gunfire, moving to the elevator bank where he shot a security guard and another individual. He proceeded to the 33rd floor, where he shot and killed one person before returning to the lobby and taking his own life.

Officers discovered a rifle case, a revolver, magazines, and ammunition in his car. According to the commissioner, Tamura's vehicle traveled across the country, passing through Colorado, Nebraska, and Iowa before arriving in New Jersey. No one answered the door at the address listed for Tamura in Las Vegas.

Support Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, support is available through various resources. You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for live chat. Additional support can be found at SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.