A heartbreaking NYC shooting has claimed three lives, including an off-duty police officer, in the busy heart of Midtown Manhattan. The horrifying incident unfolded just before 6:30 p.m. Monday at 345 Park Ave., an office building housing the NFL, Blackstone, and other major firms. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, which quickly became a focus for urgent law enforcement activity and concern for workers in the area.
Police sources report that a gunman, armed with a long gun, entered 345 Park Ave. in the early evening and began firing, leading to chaos and swift lockdowns within the building. The shooter targeted individuals inside, leaving an off-duty NYPD officer—on security detail—fatally wounded, alongside at least two additional victims. The entire block, specifically the area near East 52nd Street between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue, was closed off as emergency personnel responded to the crisis.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of confusion as alarms blared and workers rushed to find shelter. The shooter was later found dead by suicide on the building’s 33rd floor after barricading himself from law enforcement. The terror forced a building lockdown while teams from the NYPD and FBI secured the floors and checked for any further threats.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Incident time: Just before 6:30 p.m., Monday
- Location: 345 Park Ave., Midtown Manhattan—home to the NFL, Blackstone, KPMG, and others
- Fatalities: Three dead, including an off-duty NYPD officer and the shooter (suicide)
- Suspect: Male; died by suicide on the 33rd floor after barricading himself
- Active response: NYPD, FBI, and other emergency services on site
- Area impacted: Lockdown at 345 Park Ave.; streets near East 52nd, Park Ave, and Lexington cordoned off
Law Enforcement and Public Response
Authorities moved with urgency, asking citizens to avoid Midtown near Park and Lexington avenues as they secured the site and launched an investigation into the shooter’s motives. The FBI issued a statement confirming their support at the scene. Inside the building, employees were instructed to stay put, while rumors and confusion circulated on social media platforms.
Police have not yet released the names of the victims, pending family notification. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.
Community Impact
Midtown Manhattan, a place bustling with workers and tourists, was shaken by this tragedy. The presence of so many high-profile businesses at 345 Park Ave. only added to the building’s prominence and the gravity of the event.
For those living and working in NYC, Monday’s violence is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life in a big city. Community leaders are urging anyone struggling in the aftermath of the news to seek support from local resources.
Disclaimer:
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