Manhattan Office Tower Shooting: Gunman Opens Fire, Kills Multiple People Before Taking His Own Life

New York City was shaken by chaos and grief after a heavily armed man stormed a Midtown Manhattan office tower, opened fire on multiple people, and later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The shocking attack unfolded inside a high-rise building on Park Avenue, sending workers running for safety and drawing a massive emergency response.

Shooter Entered Building with Rifle and Vest

According to investigators, the gunman — identified as a 27-year-old man — arrived in the early afternoon carrying an assault-style rifle and wearing what appeared to be a protective vest. He walked directly into the lobby, where he began firing at people without warning.

Witnesses reported hearing rapid, echoing gunfire as workers scrambled into stairwells, offices, and storage rooms to hide.

Multiple Victims Killed Across Two Floors

The shooting began in the lobby but continued after the attacker entered an elevator and rode to an upper floor. There, he opened fire once again, killing another victim before turning the gun on himself.

In total, four people lost their lives, including an off-duty police officer who was working a security detail inside the building.

Paramedics and police arrived within minutes, but the gunman was found dead by the time officers reached him.

City in Shock as Investigation Expands

Authorities say they are now piecing together the gunman’s movements, background, and potential motive. A handwritten note was found on him, which reportedly contained personal grievances and emotional distress, though investigators have not disclosed full details.

Officials confirmed that the attacker had a documented history of mental health issues, raising urgent questions about access to firearms and early intervention.

Building Placed on Lockdown

After the shooting began, the entire skyscraper was placed on lockdown. Workers were carefully escorted out floor by floor while tactical teams swept the building. Some employees spent hours sheltering in place until the scene was secured.

City officials praised the swift response of law enforcement, which likely prevented even greater loss of life.

Community and Leaders React

News of the shooting spread rapidly across New York City, prompting expressions of grief and outrage from elected officials, community leaders, and residents. Many called for renewed focus on mental-health support, workplace safety, and preventive measures to reduce the risk of future mass-shooting incidents.

A candlelight vigil is expected to take place near the building as the community mourns the victims and supports their families.

A Tragic Reminder

The shooting serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenge of gun violence in America. Even in one of the busiest and best-secured business districts in the world, a single armed individual was able to cause devastation within minutes.

As investigators continue reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing evidence, city officials say the priority now is transparency, accountability, and understanding what led to the tragedy.