Mass Shooter in Park Avenue Claims Life of Security Guard
Tragedy Strikes 345 Park Avenue: Security Guard Aland Etienne Lost in Mass Shooting
New York City was left in mourning on July 28, 2025, following a devastating mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue. Among the victims was Aland Etienne, a dedicated and heroic security guard who put his life on the line to protect others.
Aland Etienne, a 46-year-old security officer, was remembered as more than just a brother—he was a father and a light in his family's lives. His brother, Gathmand Etienne, described him as such, highlighting the profound impact he had on those close to him.
In the lobby of the skyscraper, Etienne lost his life in the harrowing attack. He was not alone; Detective Didarul Islam, Wesley LePatner, and another woman also fell victim to the gunman, Shane Tamura.
Manny Pastreich, president of Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union, praised Etienne as a New York hero. Pastreich stated that Etienne took his job duties extremely seriously, embodying the essential but often underappreciated role security officers play in maintaining public safety in the city.
The loss of Etienne and the other victims has had a profound impact on the community, with their commitment to their families and city being honored as emblematic of New York's spirit.
Etienne left behind five brothers and a sister, as well as his young son, who was turning 7 on the day of the shooting. The family is asking for prayers and strength as they navigate this painful time.
The tragedy also underscores challenges in public safety measures, as the assailant had a documented history of mental health issues and was able to access the building with a rifle without being stopped.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Etienne's actions have been commemorated. He tried to recall the elevators during the chaos, putting his own safety at risk to protect others.
Gathmand Etienne, one of Etienne's brothers, posted about the family's suffering from a heartbreaking tragedy. The union, 32BJ SEIU, continues to support those affected by the tragedy, mourning alongside the community.
Shane Tamura, the gunman, killed a woman on the 33rd floor after killing Aland Etienne, a police officer, and a woman in the lobby. Tamura eventually shot himself to death on the same floor.
The memory of Aland Etienne will live on, not just as a security guard who lost his life in the line of duty, but as a hero who put others before himself in his final moments. His sacrifice serves as a reminder of the essential role security personnel play in keeping our cities safe.
The tragedy at 345 Park Avenue, which claimed the life of security guard Aland Etienne, has sparked discussions in both politics and general-news, with many questioning the adequacy of public safety measures. Aland Etienne, a dedicated father of a young boy, was applauded by the union, 32BJ SEIU, for his heroic actions in trying to recall the elevators during the mass shooting, embodying the crucial role security personnel play in maintaining safety.
