Midtown Manhattan Shooting: Gunman Blamed NFL for CTE, Citing Terry Long’s Tragic Story

A devastating shooting in a Midtown Manhattan office building claimed the lives of four people, leaving the city reeling. The gunman, identified as Shane Tamura, left behind a three-page note offering a glimpse into his troubled mind.

CTE and the NFL: A Tragic Connection?

Tamura’s note reportedly focused on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma, often seen in contact sports like football. The note specifically mentioned Terry Long, a former Pittsburgh Steelers player who tragically took his own life by ingesting antifreeze 20 years ago. Long was posthumously diagnosed with CTE. This tragic connection appears to have fueled Tamura’s anger and despair.

A Misguided Target

New York City Mayor Eric Adams revealed that Tamura’s intended target was the NFL headquarters, located on floors 5 through 8 of 345 Park Avenue. However, a seemingly simple mistake – taking the wrong elevator – led him to the 33rd floor, where the shooting ultimately unfolded.

This incident raises critical questions about the long-term effects of head injuries in sports and the devastating impact of CTE on individuals and their families. It also underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and support for those struggling with mental health challenges.