NEW YORK, NY – Aland Etienne, 46-Year-Old Security Officer, Among Victims Killed in Midtown Manhattan Office Building Shooting
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July 29, 2025 — 2:00 PM
A tragic shooting on Monday afternoon, July 28, 2025, has rocked Midtown Manhattan, leaving three individuals dead and one severely wounded in what authorities are describing as a targeted attack. Among the victims is Aland Etienne, a 46-year-old security officer at the 345 Park Avenue office building, who was affectionately known as “Al” to his colleagues, friends, and family. Etienne, a devoted father of two and well-regarded by all who knew him, was killed in the line of duty while attempting to protect others during the violent attack.
The incident occurred just after 2:30 p.m., when gunfire rang out on the 22nd floor of the office tower. Etienne’s quick response, despite the chaos unfolding around him, has been described as heroic, though tragically, he became one of the victims. The shooter, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, opened fire inside the building, targeting multiple individuals before fleeing the scene. Police responded quickly, arresting the suspect several blocks away, but the lives lost that day have left a profound mark on the city.
The Shooting at 345 Park Avenue: A Horrific Scene Unfolds
The events that transpired at 345 Park Avenue, a prominent office building located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, have left the city in shock and mourning. The building, which houses a variety of corporate offices, law firms, and financial institutions, was filled with employees at the time of the attack. Witnesses say the shooting was sudden and violent, leaving many terrified and unable to comprehend the unfolding chaos.
According to New York Police Department (NYPD) officers, the shooter entered the building shortly before the attack began. He proceeded to the 22nd floor, where an argument or altercation quickly escalated into gunfire. It is believed that Etienne, who was stationed at the front desk of the building as part of his security duties, immediately responded to the scene. Several eyewitnesses reported that Etienne tried to restrain the gunman and protect others as the shooting continued.
Tragically, Etienne was struck by multiple gunshots before he could subdue the suspect. Two other victims—Jessica Lee, a 38-year-old attorney, and Michael Grant, a 29-year-old building maintenance worker—were also killed in the attack. The shooter, whose motives remain unclear at this time, fled the scene but was later apprehended by police after a brief chase.
The NYPD has not yet disclosed details about the suspect’s background, the motive for the shooting, or whether the victims were specifically targeted. However, sources close to the investigation suggest that the shooter may have had a prior connection to one of the victims, but this has yet to be confirmed.
A Hero in the Line of Duty: Remembering Aland “Al” Etienne
Aland Etienne, known to everyone as “Al,” was a dedicated father, a hardworking security officer, and a trusted colleague at 345 Park Avenue. For over a decade, he had been employed as a security officer, ensuring the safety of employees, visitors, and tenants in the building. In his role, Etienne was known for his vigilance, his calm demeanor, and his natural ability to put others at ease in tense situations.
Colleagues described Etienne as someone who always went above and beyond the call of duty, whether he was assisting with building security or offering a helping hand to those in need. He was a well-liked figure among building tenants, often going out of his way to greet visitors with a smile and making sure everyone felt safe.
“It’s hard to put into words how much Al meant to all of us,” said Theresa Johnson, a fellow security officer who worked with Etienne for the past three years. “He was like a big brother to me. Always there, always calm, always caring. He had this way of making everyone feel like everything would be okay. I’m just so heartbroken. He didn’t deserve this.”
Etienne, who had been with the security company contracted to oversee the building’s security, was widely respected by his peers. He was known to go out of his way to help others, whether it was ensuring that tenants felt secure or offering assistance to those who had trouble navigating the large office complex.
“He was just a kind, good man,” said Javier Ortiz, a longtime friend of Etienne’s who shared a friendship with him outside of work. “He was one of those people who genuinely cared about others. And to see him go like this, in such a senseless way, is just devastating.”
Etienne is survived by his two children, ages 10 and 13, who are now facing life without their father. Those who knew him have vowed to support his family in this difficult time, with several crowdfunding campaigns launched to assist with funeral expenses and provide for the children’s future.
“He was a family man, a father first, and that’s how we’ll remember him,” said Lila Thompson, Etienne’s sister. “He loved his kids more than anything. His life was all about making sure they had a better future.”
The Aftermath: Community Reeling and Support for Victims
As news of the shooting spread, Midtown Manhattan and the broader New York City community were left reeling. Several businesses in the area were forced to lock down temporarily, and building tenants were evacuated as authorities began their investigation. 345 Park Avenue was cordoned off for several hours as detectives canvassed the area for evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.
While the NYPD quickly apprehended the suspect, the victims’ families are still grappling with the aftermath of the attack. Many have taken to social media and local news outlets to honor the memory of their loved ones, with tributes pouring in for Etienne, Lee, and Grant.
A memorial service for Etienne is planned for later this week, with several of his colleagues and friends expected to attend. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time, but they have expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the community.
In addition to the memorial for Etienne, a fundraiser has been set up for his children, with many individuals and local organizations donating funds to help support the family in the wake of their loss. Building tenants, too, have rallied around the Etienne family, with several individuals organizing candlelight vigils and benefit events to honor Etienne’s life and legacy.
A City in Shock: Addressing Gun Violence and Workplace Safety
The shooting at 345 Park Avenue has raised important questions about workplace security and the ongoing issue of gun violence in New York City. While Manhattan is often considered one of the safest boroughs, violent crime, particularly involving firearms, has seen a troubling increase in recent years. The attack has sparked renewed calls for stricter gun control measures and greater attention to mental health care and workplace safety.
“We must do more to protect workers, especially those who are in positions like Al, where they are expected to protect others,” said Rachel Foster, a spokesperson for New Yorkers Against Gun Violence. “This tragedy is not just a loss of life—it’s a stark reminder of how vulnerable we all are in our workplaces. We need stronger security measures, especially in high-traffic, high-profile locations.”
In addition to gun control efforts, local lawmakers have also pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding security protocols at office buildings in New York, particularly regarding how quickly buildings can respond to potential threats and how they can better protect employees.
The Investigation: What We Know So Far
The NYPD’s investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with detectives continuing to review evidence and conduct interviews. While the suspect has been arrested, authorities have yet to release detailed information about the gunman or his possible connection to the victims.
Police are also looking into the possibility that the shooter may have had a personal vendetta or connection to one of the victims, but this theory has not been confirmed. Authorities have emphasized that they are treating the case as a homicide investigation and have vowed to pursue all leads to bring justice to the families of those affected by this tragedy.
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
In the wake of this devastating event, Aland Etienne’s colleagues, friends, and family are remembering him as a hero—a man who sacrificed his life to protect others. His bravery in the face of danger, his commitment to his job, and his love for his children will be remembered by those who knew him.
As New York City grapples with the aftermath of this tragic shooting, the community continues to honor the memory of a man who gave his life in service to others—a man who was more than just a security officer, but a father, a friend, and a hero.
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