Last Updated on 1 month by Ashley Michael
The gunman who killed four people in a Manhattan office building Monday worked as a security guard at a Las Vegas casino before the attack, according to NBC News.
Shane Devon Tamura, 27, opened fire at 345 Park Avenue before taking his own life. Police identified him as a former surveillance department employee at the Horseshoe hotel and casino in Las Vegas.
Tamura drove from Las Vegas to New York City starting Saturday. Police tracked his BMW through Nebraska, Iowa, and New Jersey before he arrived in Manhattan.
The Attack
The shooting began around 6:30 p.m. Monday when Tamura entered the building carrying an M4 rifle. He killed four people, including NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, 36.
Islam was off-duty working security at the building. He leaves behind a pregnant wife and two young sons.
Three civilians also died in the attack. One person was wounded but survived.
Casino Employment
A Horseshoe casino spokesperson confirmed Tamura worked in their surveillance department. Former classmates said he had recently shared on social media about working at a Las Vegas casino.
Court records show Tamura was arrested in September 2023 at Red Rock Casino Resort. He allegedly refused to leave after attempting to collect $5,000 in winnings without providing identification.
The charges were dropped in November 2023 when prosecutors declined to file a complaint.
Mental Health History
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Tamura had “documented mental health history” according to Las Vegas law enforcement partners.
Investigators found a note at the scene where Tamura blamed football for causing brain damage. He specifically mentioned chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) as a possible cause of his mental illness.
The building houses several major tenants including the NFL headquarters, Blackstone, and KPMG.
Background
Tamura played high school football in Granada Hills, California. Former teammates described him as a talented running back with NFL potential.
Police found prescription medication, ammunition, and a loaded revolver in his vehicle. He held a concealed carry permit from Las Vegas.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full motive behind the attack.