Nationwide — Aland Etienne, a 46-year-old African American man from New York, was one of four victims killed in a deadly shooting at a Midtown Manhattan office building. He leaves behind a 6-year-old son who still doesn’t know his father has died just days before his birthday.
Etienne worked as a security guard at 345 Park Avenue when the gunman, 27-year-old Shane Tamura, entered the building Monday evening and opened fire with a high-powered rifle. Authorities say Tamura appeared to be targeting the NFL headquarters inside the building.
According to the New York Post, Etienne died while hiding behind a desk in the building’s lobby. He was unarmed, like many security guards across the city. He was one of several innocent victims. Others killed include an NYPD officer and a Blackstone executive. An NFL employee was also wounded.
His loved ones are now grieving in private. Etienne’s brother, Gathmand, described him as “more than a brother” in a heartfelt Facebook post and asked for prayers during this painful time.
Etienne lived in Canarsie, Brooklyn, and worked two security jobs. After finishing a shift, he would nap briefly before heading to his next post. Co-workers said he was known for his friendly greetings and hopeful attitude. Some affectionately called him “Eli.”
He is survived by his young son, an older daughter, five brothers, and a sister. His family traveled from Florida to be with his girlfriend and mourn his loss. A union representative called him a “New York hero,” noting the daily risks faced by unarmed security officers.
Tamura’s deadly rampage is still under investigation. Tamura, a former high school football player, left a suicide note blaming brain damage from the sport. Officials believe he may have gotten lost in the building while trying to reach the NFL offices. He later shot and killed himself.