The man behind the horrifying shooting at the NFL’s New York City headquarters has died by suicide in a shocking and unusual way — and he left behind a disturbing note claiming he suffered from CTE, the degenerative brain disease that has plagued many former football players.
Shooter Identified as Shane Tamura, 27
Sources confirm the shooter is Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old man from Las Vegas who stormed into 345 Park Avenue — the building housing NFL corporate headquarters — and opened fire Monday night, killing four people, including an NYPD officer, and injuring another who remains in critical condition.
Tamura reportedly died by shooting himself in the chest, which law enforcement sources say was a deliberate move to preserve his brain for future examination.
“He wanted his brain studied. He believed he had CTE,”
— Law enforcement source to TMZ
A Haunting 3-Page Suicide Note
Investigators say Tamura left a three-page suicide note on his body where he directly mentioned the NFL and claimed he suffered from CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) — a progressive brain condition linked to repeated head trauma, often associated with football players.
While it’s currently unknown whether Tamura was officially diagnosed, he played football in his youth, attending high school in the Los Angeles area and graduating in 2016.
According to law enforcement, Tamura made it clear that he wanted to send a message through his death and hoped his preserved brain would be studied to “prove a point.”
Wrong Elevator, Same Target
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed Tuesday that Tamura had targeted the NFL specifically, but took the wrong elevator during the attack. Despite the mistake, chaos erupted inside the skyscraper as he opened fire on multiple victims.
The building went into lockdown mode, and first responders flooded the scene. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell later confirmed that one NFL employee was “seriously injured” in the rampage.
Victims Include a Young NYPD Officer
Tragically, the shooter’s rampage claimed the lives of four innocent people, including a young NYPD officer, who sources say was a father of two with a baby on the way. Another victim remains hospitalized in critical condition.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy. One of our own — a public servant and a father — was lost to senseless violence,”
— Anonymous NYPD spokesperson
Mental Health and Cross-Country Travel
Tamura reportedly traveled across the country from Las Vegas to New York just days before the shooting. Authorities confirm he had a documented history of mental health issues, though the exact nature of his treatment or diagnosis has not been released.
The connection between Tamura’s mental state, alleged CTE symptoms, and the decision to attack the NFL headquarters remains under investigation.
What Is CTE?
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain condition caused by repeated head injuries, typically seen in athletes like football players, boxers, and even military veterans. It can lead to symptoms such as:
- Aggression and impulsivity
- Severe depression
- Memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Suicidal ideation
The condition can only be diagnosed after death by examining the brain for tau protein buildup — making Tamura’s decision to shoot himself in the chest instead of the head particularly notable.
NFL’s Troubled History With CTE
Tamura’s note calling out the NFL adds yet another layer to the league’s long-standing controversy over brain injuries. The NFL has faced multiple lawsuits from former players who developed severe cognitive and psychological issues later in life due to concussions and head trauma sustained on the field.
This incident now puts fresh scrutiny on the league’s efforts — or lack thereof — in addressing mental health and brain trauma concerns among youth and former players.
Tightened Security at NFL Headquarters
Following the attack, security has been significantly increased at 345 Park Avenue. Officials have promised enhanced surveillance, armed guards, and stricter building access for employees and visitors alike.
“We’re treating this as both a criminal investigation and a mental health crisis,”
— NYPD official to press
The Aftermath: A City in Mourning
As families grieve the loss of their loved ones, the entire New York community — and the nation — is grappling with yet another mass shooting fueled by personal trauma and systemic failure.
If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling
Help is available. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.
What Happens Next?
Authorities are continuing to examine Tamura’s background, including his high school football history, medical records, and digital footprint. The NFL has yet to release a full statement regarding the attack or Tamura’s claims about CTE.
The shooter’s body has been transferred to the medical examiner’s office, where a detailed neuropathological study of his brain may eventually determine whether CTE was truly present — and what that means for the future of football safety and mental health care in America.
Call to Action:
What are your thoughts on the link between CTE and violence? Should the NFL do more to protect players and youth athletes? Sound off in the comments or share this article to keep the conversation going.
