New York, NY — Authorities have identified new details in the ongoing investigation of a fatal shooting in Manhattan on Monday, after a note left by the suspect referenced Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and the National Football League (NFL), urging researchers to “study my brain.”
The shooting, which occurred in the Chelsea neighborhood late Monday afternoon, left two people dead and three others injured, according to the New York Police Department. The suspect, whose name is being withheld pending notification of family, turned the weapon on himself following a brief standoff with law enforcement.
Note Cites CTE and NFL
Investigators recovered a handwritten note at the scene in which the suspect claimed to have suffered from CTE, a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma, most commonly associated with athletes in contact sports. The note cited the NFL and implored medical experts to “study my brain” after death, raising questions about the possible role of neurological issues in the suspect’s mental health and actions.
Officials have confirmed that the suspect played high school and semi-professional football, but there is no record of him competing in the NFL. The NYPD stated that the investigation into his background, including any formal diagnosis or treatment for brain injuries, is ongoing.
CTE and Violent Behavior
CTE has become a focal point of national debate over the last decade, especially as high-profile cases involving former athletes have come to light. Medical experts caution that while the disease has been linked to mood disorders, memory loss, and impaired judgment, its relationship with violent behavior remains complex and not fully understood.
"The science is still evolving," said Dr. Lisa McCarthy, a neurologist at NYU Langone Health. "While we know repeated head trauma can have devastating effects, there is no definitive causal link between CTE and acts of violence."
Ongoing Investigation
The NYPD and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office continue to process evidence and interview witnesses. The medical examiner’s office confirmed that, in accordance with the suspect’s wishes, his brain will be donated for scientific research.
The NFL has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident or the suspect’s note. The league has faced increased scrutiny over player safety and long-term health risks in recent years, leading to expanded concussion protocols and funding for brain research.
- The Manhattan shooting is the latest high-profile case to raise concerns about brain health and violence.
- CTE can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem, making research donations like this critical for ongoing studies.
- Community leaders and mental health advocates are urging renewed focus on support for individuals struggling with neurological and psychological issues.
Authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation develops.
