Mass Shooter on Park Avenue Leads to Guard's Death
Aland Etienne, a dedicated security officer at 345 Park Avenue in Manhattan, lost his life heroically during a mass shooting in July 2025. Etienne was manning the lobby security desk when he was fatally shot, showing a final act of bravery as he sought to protect others in the building.
Etienne, who was 46 years old, was known for taking his job duties extremely seriously. Manny Pastreich, president of the 32BJ SEIU union representing security officers and other building service workers, described him as a "New York hero," highlighting the sacrifices security officers make daily to keep the city safe.
Beyond his professional role, Etienne was a family man. He had a partner of eight years, Rachel Paoli, and a son who was about to turn seven. His brother Gathmand spoke in social media posts about the profound loss to their family, describing Aland as “more than a brother—a father, a son, and a light in our lives.”
The union and community mourned Etienne’s loss deeply, recognizing it as a grim reminder of the risks faced by security personnel. The 32BJ SEIU union pledged support for their members affected by the tragedy and underscored the essential but often underappreciated role that security officers play in New York City.
The family is navigating through a difficult time following Etienne's death. Gathmand Etienne expressed that their hearts are shattered due to the loss. The investigation into the mass shooting is ongoing, with the gunman, Shane Tamura, having subsequently shot himself to death on the 33rd floor.
Aland Etienne's contributions to the city are essential, though often unappreciated, according to Manny Pastreich. His family members are remembering him as an important part of their lives, and the Etienne family is asking for prayers and strength during this painful time.
[1] Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry stated that more stories about the life-and-death drama that unfolded will come out. [2] Gathmand Etienne, one of Etienne's brothers, announced the family's suffering of a heartbreaking tragedy on social media. [3] Aland Etienne was a dedicated security officer who took his job duties extremely seriously, according to Manny Pastreich, president of Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union.
- The unfolding drama of Aland Etienne's life and the heroic actions he took during a mass shooting in July 2025, which tragically claimed his life, has prompted Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry to anticipate more stories about this incident.
- Following the heartbreaking tragedy of Aland Etienne's death during a mass shooting, Gathmand Etienne, one of his brothers, took to social media to share the family's suffering and express their profound grief.
