CNN Called New York Shooter 'Possibly White' — Here's the Full Story

Understanding the CNN Coverage of the Manhattan Office Shooting

During the coverage of a tragic shooting at a Manhattan office building on July 28, 2025, several claims about CNN’s reporting surfaced on social media. These claims centered around the network's description of the suspect, who was later identified as Shane Tamura from Las Vegas. Some users criticized CNN for labeling the individual as “possibly white,” despite photos circulating online that showed someone with a darker complexion.

This controversy highlights the importance of context in news reporting, especially during breaking events where information is still emerging. CNN’s initial description of the suspect came early in their coverage, before the individual had been officially identified or captured. This detail is crucial to understanding the accuracy and timing of the network’s statements.

Key Moments in the Coverage

The incident began when CNN started covering the event at 7:22 p.m. EDT during its program "Erin Burnett OutFront." At 7:25 p.m., anchor Erin Burnett introduced John Miller, CNN’s chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst, to discuss the situation. During this time, Miller provided details about the suspect’s clothing, the weapon used, and how the shooter entered the building.

Later, at 7:31 p.m., Miller added more information, stating that the suspect was "possibly white." This statement occurred before the suspect had been identified, and there was no confirmation of his identity or whether he was still at large. The network did not disclose the source of this information, which led to further speculation.

Burnett then repeated the term “possibly white” shortly after, reinforcing the description. This prompted questions from viewers about the accuracy of the report, particularly given the conflicting images that were circulating online.

Social Media Reactions and Misinterpretations

Social media platforms became a hub for discussions about CNN’s reporting. One notable post came from Alex Jones, a conspiracy theorist and Infowars host, who claimed that CNN was using phrases like “possibly white” as part of a broader effort to mislead the public. His post included images of a man with a darker complexion, suggesting a contradiction between the network’s description and the visuals being shared online.

It is important to note that CNN’s use of the phrase “possibly white” was made in the context of an ongoing investigation. At the time, the network had limited information about the suspect, and the description was likely based on available evidence or reports from law enforcement.

Timeline of Events

• 7:22 p.m. EDT: CNN begins coverage of the shooting.
• 7:25 p.m.: Erin Burnett introduces John Miller to discuss the situation.
• 7:31 p.m.: Miller describes the suspect as “possibly white.”
• 7:49 p.m.: Correspondent Shimon Prokupecz reports that the gunman was believed to be dead.
• After 8 p.m.: CNN airs a widely circulated photo of the suspect carrying a rifle.

At the time of these reports, police had not publicly confirmed any details about the suspect’s race or ethnicity. It was only later that authorities identified Shane Tamura as the individual involved in the shooting.

Conclusion

CNN did describe the suspect as “possibly white” during its coverage of the Manhattan office building shooting. However, this description was made early in the broadcast, before the suspect had been officially identified. The network’s statements were based on the information available at the time, which was limited and evolving.

The confusion surrounding the network’s reporting underscores the challenges of covering breaking news. As more information becomes available, it is essential for both journalists and the public to consider the context in which statements are made. This helps ensure that the public receives accurate and responsible coverage of significant events.