NEW YORK — A police officer and a bystander were shot Tuesday evening during a chaotic scene inside a Midtown Manhattan office skyscraper, prompting a massive emergency response and fears of an active shooter.
The incident unfolded inside the lobby of 345 Park Avenue, near East 52nd Street — a prestigious commercial tower that houses the headquarters of major firms including Blackstone, the NFL, KPMG, and a branch of Bank of America.
According to NBC New York, the gunman — reportedly armed with an assault rifle — opened fire inside the building, striking a responding police officer and another individual believed to be a civilian bystander. Multiple law enforcement sources confirmed the officer had been shot and was receiving emergency medical care.
The suspect, who was described as dressed entirely in tan and possibly wearing a protective vest, was believed to be inside the building during the attack. Authorities have not confirmed whether the gunman was apprehended or if any threat remains.
Witnesses described the moment panic erupted in the normally bustling lobby. “People were screaming and running for the exits,” said one employee who works in the building. “It was pure chaos.”
The status of the victims has not been publicly disclosed. The NYPD, along with federal and local emergency responders, quickly converged on the scene, locking down the area and evacuating nearby businesses. Streets surrounding Park Avenue and East 52nd were temporarily closed as the situation developed.
The building’s owner, Rudin Management, has yet to issue a statement.
This incident marks one of the most high-profile shootings in Midtown in recent memory, drawing attention to ongoing concerns around building security and gun violence in urban centers.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive and background of the shooter, as well as how the firearm was brought into the secure office complex.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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