Uncertain Midtown Business Leaders Struggle with Employee Safety Measures following Shootings
In the wake of the tragic shooting at 345 Park Avenue in July 2025, which claimed the lives of four individuals including an off-duty cop and an executive at Blackstone, Wall Street companies are taking proactive steps to bolster corporate and building security protocols.
The incident, which occurred in a major Midtown Manhattan office skyscraper, has raised concerns about the adequacy of existing security measures for workplaces on Wall Street and other financial hubs. The gunman, with a documented mental health history, was able to enter the 33rd floor of the building armed with an AR-15 assault weapon.
In response, companies are likely to tighten hiring standards for security contractors, improve coordination protocols with the NYPD and other emergency services, and conduct a thorough review of security staffing, surveillance, emergency response, and mental health awareness.
Several preventive steps that Wall Street firms may consider include implementing advanced entry screening, strengthening liaison with local law enforcement, increasing physical security personnel presence and training, installing or upgrading panic alarms and secure safe areas, enhancing employee awareness programs, and evaluating and addressing workplace mental health concerns.
Industry security experts, such as Dale Buckner, CEO of Global Guardian — a corporate security firm — have emphasised the importance of convincingly reassuring workers post-shooting, suggesting firms are focusing on both physical and psychological safety measures.
Some CEOs are considering removing existing security measures and replacing them with armed guards in lobbies. However, safety expert Mac Segal at AHNA Group advises exploring panic buttons for lobbies instead. He also predicts a temporary increase in security measures, such as more unarmed guards and possibly metal detectors, but expects this to dissipate after a few months.
The issue of additional security measures, such as X-raying items, is unclear due to the constant influx of clients, vendors, and employees. Some Wall Street executives are even considering obtaining concealed carry permits as a means of self-protection.
Real estate brokers describe buildings like 345 Park Avenue as "fortress-like" with multiple security measures, including ID checks and QR codes. Despite these measures, the tragic event has highlighted the need for continuous review and enhancement of security protocols.
As the dust settles, it is clear that Wall Street companies and executives are engaging with security consultants, law enforcement, and internal teams to develop improved, comprehensive approaches to prevent similar tragedies. While no publicly detailed new security regulations or specific tactical measures have been announced yet, the event is serving as a catalyst for deeper review and strengthened preventive measures across affected firms and others in the financial district.
- In the aftermath of the shooting at 345 Park Avenue, health professionals are emphasizing the importance of addressing workplace mental health concerns, as the gunman had a documented mental health history.
- Amidst the enhanced focus on security following the shooting incident, industry experts suggest that companies are considering a blend of physical safety measures, such as panic buttons, increased security personnel, and metal detectors, along with psychological support for employees.
