“(Islam) was saving lives protecting New Yorkers [when he died],” Adams said in a
press conference
.
The shooter has been identified by law enforcement as Shane Devon Tamura. He was a resident of Nevada who reportedly drove across the country to commit the attack.
New York City officials say the building that Tamura attacked housed financial companies and the headquarters of the NFL. National media is reporting that his target was the NFL.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the attack began around 6:30 p.m. when the suspect walked into the office building wielding an “M4 rifle” and opened fire.
Officer Islam, who was working in the building’s lobby in uniform, was the first person shot in the attack, Tisch said.
The suspect reportedly shot multiple people on the first floor. Then went up to the 33rd floor. He reportedly shot another victim on that floor then killed himself.
Police found a revolver and extra ammo in Tamura’s car.
Officer Islam was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
He is survived by his wife and two young sons. Commissioner Tisch said Officer Islam’s wife is pregnant.
“Pure evil came to the heart of our city,” NYPD PBA President Patrick Lynch said.