A man with an M4 assault rifle stormed a Manhattan skyscraper and left four people dead before taking his own life. His name was Shane Devon Tamura. He was 27 years old and from Las Vegas.
Tamura reportedly carried a handwritten note blaming the NFL for his CTE, the brain disease linked to repeated head trauma. One line in the note read, “Terry Long football gave me CTE and it caused me to drink a gallon of antifreeze,” referencing former Pittsburgh Steeler Terry Long.
Another line said, “You can’t go against the NFL, they’ll squash you.” Authorities also found the message: “Please study brain for CTE. I’m sorry. The league knowingly concealed the dangers to our brains to maximize profits. They failed us.”
Tamura had driven cross-country from Las Vegas in a black BMW. He arrived at 345 Park Avenue — a high-rise building that houses the NFL headquarters, Blackstone, and other major firms. He walked straight in, wearing a sport coat and a button-down shirt, and carrying his assault rifle in full view.
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As he entered the lobby, the violence began. He shot and killed NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who was working security at the time. He also gunned down a female victim who was trying to run for cover. A second security guard was shot while taking shelter behind the desk. Another man was hit while hiding behind a pillar.
After the lobby shooting, Tamura entered the elevator and rode up to the 33rd floor, where the Rudin Management offices are located. There, he shot and killed a fourth person before turning the weapon on himself.
In total, five people were left dead, including Tamura. An NFL employee was also seriously injured during the attack and is now in stable condition.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch later confirmed that Tamura had a documented history of mental health issues. He also held a legal concealed carry permit, issued in June 2022, and was licensed as a private investigator. Inside his car, police found a second firearm, extra ammunition, magazines, a backpack, and prescription medications.
Investigators believe Tamura acted alone. No accomplices have been identified. But they are still combing through surveillance footage, his online activity, and his social media accounts for any signs of planning or motive.
Mayor Eric Adams said Tamura likely intended to reach the NFL’s floor, but entered the wrong elevator bank. That mistake brought him to the 33rd floor — where the final victim was found.
Officer Islam, who lost his life in the attack, is being honored as a hero. Mayor Adams said he was “protecting New Yorkers” in his final moments. City leaders and fellow officers also spoke out in grief, remembering his bravery and sacrifice.
Featured image via Screengrab
