On July 28, 2025, a devastating mass shooting struck 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Among the four innocent victims was Aland Etienne, a 46-year-old unarmed security officer who was fulfilling his duty behind the lobby desk when the shooter opened fire. According to his union, Etienne worked at the building since 2019 (with a prior stint in 2017) and had been licensed as an unarmed guard since 2017 seiu32bj.org+12KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News+12New York Post+12.
🇺🇸 A True New York Hero
Following the tragedy, Manny Pastreich, President of SEIU Local 32BJ, praised Etienne as a “New York hero.” He described him as someone who “took his job duties extremely seriously” and exemplified the selfless spirit of security professionals who risk their lives every day to protect others THE ORG+146sqft+14LinkedIn+14. Pastreich added, “Every time a security officer puts on their uniform, they put their lives on the line… Aland Etienne is a New York hero. We will remember him as such.” Justia Dockets & Filings+156sqft+15People.com+15.
🧑🤝🧑 A Dedicated Protector and Father
Etienne was described by colleagues and union leaders as beloved and conscientious, committed to safety with unwavering professionalism. He was also a father of two, leaving behind a young son who will turn seven this weekend—and reportedly remains unaware of his father’s death Breitbart. His brother, Gathmand Etienne, shared on social media:
“He was more than a brother — he was a father, a son, and a light in our lives… Our hearts are shattered.” WSVN 7News+11Breitbart+11Yahoo+11
🕯️ The Victims and the Impact of July 28
The shooter, 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura of Las Vegas, entered the building armed with an M4 rifle, intending to target NFL offices but mistakenly taking the wrong elevator. Among the victims were:
- Didarul Islam, a Bangladeshi-born off-duty NYPD officer, working additional duty as security and father of two with another child on the way
- Wesley LePatner, a senior managing director at Blackstone and mother of two
- Julia Hyman, a 27-year-old recent Cornell graduate and associate at Rudin Management
- Aland Etienne, whose life was extinguished in the line of duty
- A fourth 27-year-old woman not yet officially identified KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News+9Business Insider+9People.com+9People.com
Another employee from the NFL was critically injured but is expected to recover ABC17NEWS.
🛡️ Why Etienne’s Legacy Matters to Fast Guard Service
For those in the security industry, Etienne’s sacrifice serves as a solemn reminder of the inherent risks security officers assume to protect others. While we don’t know each officer’s name, their courage and sacrifice are evident in every shift, every post, every patrol.
At Fast Guard Service, we honor that commitment by:
- Prioritizing vigilant hiring practices and training
- Ensuring our personnel have clear communication tools and emergency protocols
- Supporting the resilience and welfare of our security teams on the ground
✨ In Memoriam & What Comes Next
We extend our deepest condolences to Aland Etienne’s family—his partner Rachel Paoli, their son celebrating his 7th birthday, and loved ones following this unimaginable loss. His commitment to duty is a beacon of everyday heroism and integrity.
We also pay respects to Didarul Islam, Wesley LePatner, and Julia Hyman, honoring their contributions to New York City and mourning the unnecessary lives lost in violence.
🔍 Remembering Security Officer Aland Etienne
Let this tragedy renew our collective gratitude for the unseen dedication of security professionals—those who stand guard, often without praise, ensuring the safety of others at personal risk. Their service deserves recognition, support, and protection.