Hundreds honor security guard killed in New York office tower shooting
Share this @internewscast.com

NEW YORK (AP) — A large crowd gathered to pay tribute to Aland Etienne, the security guard who lost his life in a shooting incident last month at a Manhattan office building. The gunman had been targeting the headquarters of the National Football League.

Aland Etienne, who immigrated from Haiti to the United States in 2017 with aspirations of a better future, was honored as a devoted father and grandfather. He was at his security post when the tragic incident occurred on July 28.

“My brother will be remembered as a hero. A humble, steady, kind New York hero,” said Smith Etienne, Aland’s brother, in a statement. “Aland made the ultimate sacrifice, choosing bravery and selflessness over fear. In his final moments, he acted to protect others.”

The memorial service for Etienne, aged 46, took place Saturday in Brooklyn. He was the last of the four shooting victims to be laid to rest. In addition to Etienne, a New York City police officer, an executive from an investment firm, and a worker from a real estate firm were killed. The gunman injured one other person before ending his own life.

Officer Didarul Islam, also slain and an immigrant like Etienne, was providing private security with department approval. Islam was of Bangladeshi-American descent.

Manny Pastreich, president of Etienne’s union, 32BJ SEIU, said Etienne’s legacy represents essential workers who form New York City’s backbone, as well as immigrants who arrive in the U.S. seeking better opportunities and contribute significantly to society.

“His legacy will serve as a reminder of the contributions of immigrants, and the sacrifices, they make every day,” Pastreich said in a statement.

Security officers from buildings across New York held a vigil last week to honor Etienne.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

EU Urges US to Uphold Trade Agreement Following Court’s Rejection of Trump-Era Tariffs

BRUSSELS – The European Union’s executive branch has called for “complete transparency”…

Bethel Christian Church Nourishes Community with Food and Joyful Spirit

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — In a heartwarming gesture of community support, Bethel…

Discover the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards: See Who Took Home the Top Honors!

LONDON – The prestigious British Academy Film Awards for 2026 were revealed…

Join the Splash: Special Olympics Tennessee’s Johnson City Polar Plunge Makes a Big Impact

On a brisk Sunday afternoon in Johnson City, Tennessee, an invigorating event…

Masked Shoplifting Suspect Shot by Deputy at Orange County Walmart: Officials Report

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A tense encounter unfolded on East Colonial Drive…

St. Francis of Assisi’s Relics Draw Devout Crowds: A Testament to Timeless Christian Fascination

ASSISI – For the first time in history, the skeletal remains of…

Jack Hughes’ Overtime Heroics Lead Team USA to Olympic Gold Triumph Over Canada

The United States has claimed the pinnacle of the hockey world, marking…

Supreme Court Ruling on Trump’s Tariffs Introduces Uncertainty, Yet Markets Remain Stable

BANGKOK – In a significant legal development, the U.S. Supreme Court has…