New York, NY – Mass Shooting in Midtown Manhattan Claims Four Lives, Including Bravery of Security Guard Aland Etienne
NEW YORK, NY — In a senseless act of violence that has shaken the heart of New York City, four individuals tragically lost their lives on Monday evening, July 28, 2025, in a mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Among the victims was Aland Etienne, a security guard hailed for his bravery in trying to protect others, as well as Julia Hyman, 26, a young woman with a promising future, NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, 36, a dedicated member of the force, and Wesley LePatner, 43, a senior managing director at Blackstone, one of the world’s largest investment firms.
The violence unfolded just after 6:30 PM, when gunshots rang out in the busy office building located in one of New York City’s busiest business districts. As the city was finishing up its workday, the shooting sent shockwaves through Midtown Manhattan, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
A Tragic and Unfathomable Act of Violence
Details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, but what is clear is the immense horror that unfolded. Authorities believe the gunman — whose identity has not yet been released — opened fire inside the building, targeting individuals on multiple floors before fleeing the scene. By the time the NYPD and emergency responders arrived, the building was locked down, and the devastation was already evident.
Four individuals were confirmed dead at the scene. In addition to Aland Etienne, the security guard, the other victims included Julia Hyman, a young woman with a bright future, Officer Didarul Islam, a brave NYPD officer who had been assigned to the building that day, and Wesley LePatner, a respected executive at Blackstone. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but investigators have emphasized that the incident appears to have been a random act of violence rather than a targeted attack.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, New Yorkers are grappling with the shock and grief of such an unexpected and violent tragedy. The loss of four lives, including a public servant and a community hero, has left the city reeling.
Aland Etienne: A Security Guard Who Risked His Life
Among the victims, Aland Etienne, a 42-year-old security guard, has been widely praised for his selfless actions during the shooting. Reports indicate that Etienne, who had worked at 345 Park Avenue for several years, acted quickly when the gunfire erupted. Witnesses describe him as calmly ushering people to safety and attempting to shield others from the danger.
“He was the first one to spring into action,” said Maria Alvarez, a witness who was in the building at the time of the attack. “He ran towards the danger, trying to warn people and get them to safety. He was so brave, and I know he saved a lot of lives.”
Etienne’s actions on that fateful evening have been lauded by both his colleagues and the broader community. Police and city officials have confirmed that he was fatally shot while attempting to protect others from the gunman. His bravery in the face of grave danger exemplifies the selfless dedication of those who work on the frontlines of public safety.
“It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Aland Etienne, a true hero who gave his life trying to protect others,” said Police Commissioner Janelle Williams. “His quick thinking and courage in the face of terror were extraordinary, and we owe him a debt of gratitude for his bravery.”
Etienne is survived by his wife and two young children, who are now left to grieve the loss of a husband and father who went above and beyond the call of duty to help others. His family has expressed their devastation over the loss but is also deeply proud of his heroism.
The Other Victims
In addition to Etienne, three other victims lost their lives in the shooting, each leaving behind loved ones and a legacy of accomplishments.
Julia Hyman, 26
Julia Hyman, a 26-year-old woman, was among the victims fatally shot in the attack. Hyman, a young professional with a promising future, was reportedly in the building for a business meeting when the shooting occurred. Described as bright, ambitious, and full of life, Julia had recently started a job in marketing with a prestigious firm and had been building her career in the fast-paced world of Manhattan’s business district.
Her family, devastated by her loss, has described her as a kind and driven woman who had dreams of making a positive impact on the world. “She was so full of promise and always gave 110% in everything she did,” said Claudia Hyman, Julia’s mother. “This tragedy has taken away not just our daughter, but someone who was going to do amazing things in this world. We are heartbroken.”
NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, 36
Officer Didarul Islam, 36, a dedicated member of the New York Police Department, was also killed during the shooting. Islam had been assigned to 345 Park Avenue on that particular evening as part of his duties providing security for the building. Fellow officers have described Islam as a dedicated and committed officer, known for his courage and professionalism.
Didarul Islam had served with the NYPD for over 12 years and was highly regarded within his precinct. He was a beloved figure among his colleagues, and his death has sparked an outpouring of grief from the law enforcement community. “Didarul was the kind of officer who would always put others before himself,” said Detective Michelle Clark, a colleague and close friend. “This tragedy has left a hole in our hearts, and we will never forget his bravery and his service.”
Islam is survived by his wife and two children, who are mourning the loss of a loving father and devoted public servant.
Wesley LePatner, 43
The fourth victim was Wesley LePatner, 43, a senior managing director at Blackstone, a global investment firm. LePatner was in the building for a meeting at the time of the shooting and is remembered by colleagues as a talented and well-respected executive. Known for his sharp intellect and leadership skills, LePatner had worked at Blackstone for over a decade, where he was instrumental in several successful business ventures.
“He was a brilliant mind, but even more than that, he was a great person,” said Jonathan Harris, a colleague at Blackstone. “He always took time to mentor others, and his contributions to our firm were immeasurable. Wesley will be missed not just professionally, but personally. He was a friend to so many of us.”
LePatner leaves behind a wife and children, and his colleagues are planning a memorial in his honor to celebrate his life and achievements.
A City in Mourning
The mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue is a tragic event that has left New York City in mourning. In the wake of the attack, city leaders and law enforcement have vowed to do everything in their power to bring justice to the victims and their families. At the same time, the residents of Manhattan and the broader New York City area are grappling with the horror of this violence in their own backyard.
“This is a senseless act of violence, and we will work tirelessly to hold those responsible accountable,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we will continue to do everything in our power to make sure something like this never happens again.”
The city is also beginning to plan memorials and vigils for the victims, with plans for a public gathering to honor the lives lost. The NYPD has vowed to continue its investigation into the shooting, while the community at large grapples with the enormity of this tragedy.
Final Thoughts
As the city mourns the loss of Aland Etienne, Julia Hyman, Didarul Islam, and Wesley LePatner, the focus now turns to honoring their memory and ensuring that their legacies are remembered. These four individuals — each with their own unique life, contributions, and character — were taken too soon, and their loss is felt by all who knew them.
The story of Aland Etienne’s bravery, in particular, serves as a reminder of the selflessness and heroism that ordinary people are capable of, even in the most harrowing of circumstances. His actions saved lives, and in the midst of tragedy, they have inspired others to be courageous in the face of danger.
Though the pain of their loss is immeasurable, those who knew these victims will continue to carry their memories forward — as well as the hope that justice will prevail, and that no more innocent lives will be lost to violence.
Leave a Reply