A devastating shooting occurred at a luxury office tower in Midtown Manhattan, leaving four people dead, including a police officer, and one person seriously injured. The gunman, identified as 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura, took his own life after the rampage. According to authorities, Tamura left behind a multi-page note claiming he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to head trauma, allegedly caused by his experience playing American football.
Tamura’s note accused the National Football League (NFL) of hiding the risks of brain injuries among players to protect its profits. He wrote, “Study my brain for CTE. The league (NFL) knowingly concealed the dangers to our brains to maximize profits. They failed us.” The note also referenced a 2013 ‘Frontline’ documentary featuring former NFL players who developed CTE and mentioned former Pittsburgh Steelers player Terry Long, who was diagnosed with CTE and died by suicide after drinking antifreeze two decades ago.
The NYPD held a press conference to share details of the shooting, revealing that Tamura entered 345 Park Avenue, opened fire in the lobby, and then made his way to the 33rd floor, where he shot another person. Police described Tamura as holding an M4 assault rifle and having a documented mental health history. Authorities found a revolver, ammunition, and prescription medication in Tamura’s black BMW. New York Mayor Eric Adams paid tribute to the late police officer, Didarul Islam, calling him a “true blue New Yorker” and a hero.
Understanding CTE
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain disease associated with repeated head impacts, common in contact sports like football and military combat. It causes permanent damage to nerve cells in the brain, leading to changes in behavior, mood, and thinking ability. Symptoms may include depression, suicidal thoughts, personality shifts, and memory loss. CTE can only be diagnosed with certainty after death by examining the brain during an autopsy. The NFL has acknowledged the connection between football and CTE, paying out over $1.4 billion to former players for concussion-related health claims.
Investigation and Aftermath
The motive behind the attack is still being investigated, with police examining Tamura’s mental health history and potential grievances against the NFL. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell informed staff that one of their members was left seriously injured following the incident. The shooting has raised concerns about gun violence and the impact of head injuries in sports.
