Gunman Fatally Shoots Officer and 3 Others in Midtown Office Tower

Tragedy Strikes Midtown as Shooting Leaves Four Dead, Including Police Officer

NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 — A mass shooting in a Midtown Manhattan office tower left four people dead, including a veteran police officer, and several others injured on Tuesday morning. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:45 a.m. on the 22nd floor of the Parkview Plaza building on 6th Avenue, according to New York Police Department officials.

Authorities responded within minutes to reports of shots fired inside the high-rise office complex, which houses multiple businesses and financial firms. Upon arrival, officers encountered the gunman, who opened fire, fatally striking Officer Michael Hernandez, a 14-year NYPD veteran assigned to Midtown South Precinct. Three civilians — two office employees and a visiting client — were also killed in the attack.

Suspect in Custody, Motive Under Investigation

The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Lucas Bennett, was apprehended by responding officers after a brief standoff. Law enforcement sources indicate Bennett was a former employee of one of the building's tenants, who had been terminated earlier this year. Police are investigating whether workplace grievances motivated the attack.

• Victims: One police officer and three civilians confirmed dead
• Suspect: Lucas Bennett, 38, in custody
• Location: Parkview Plaza, 6th Avenue, Midtown Manhattan

Several other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The NYPD stated that the quick response prevented further loss of life.

Response and Ongoing Investigation

Mayor Melissa Torres addressed the public Tuesday afternoon, expressing condolences to the victims' families and pledging full support for the ongoing investigation. "This was a senseless act of violence that has shaken our city," Torres stated. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the FBI is assisting with the investigation, though there is currently no indication of terrorism.

Security measures at office buildings across Midtown have been heightened following the incident. Authorities urge anyone with information or video footage to contact the NYPD tip line.

National Debate on Gun Violence Renewed

This tragedy comes amid ongoing national debate over gun safety laws and workplace security. According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, mass shootings in the United States have risen in 2025, intensifying calls for legislative action from advocacy groups and lawmakers alike.

The NYPD will release further details as the investigation progresses. Grief counseling and support services are being offered to those affected by the shooting.