Quick-Thinking Lobby Worker Credited with Saving Eight Lives in NYC Mass Shooting

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NEW YORK — In the midst of the deadliest mass shooting in New York City in more than 25 years, a lobby worker at a Midtown high-rise took swift action that saved the lives of eight people. Andre Morris, 39, who has worked at 345 Park Avenue for over a decade, corralled a group of employees into a supply closet as a gunman opened fire on the 33rd floor last Monday, shielding them from danger until law enforcement arrived.

The attack left four dead and one injured before the shooter, identified as 27-year-old Shane Tamura, took his own life. Among the victims were off-duty New York Police Department (NYPD) officer Didarul Islam, building security guard Aland Etienne, Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner, and Rudin Management staffer Julia Hyman.

The violence unfolded just as workers were exiting an elevator. Morris, stationed at the front desk, reacted without hesitation upon hearing rapid gunfire and spotting smoke. “I just did my job,” Morris told the New York Post, adding, “I’m not a hero. I am completely devastated by the tragic and senseless deaths.”

Authorities say Tamura, armed with an AR-15-style rifle, targeted the building, which houses major tenants including the National Football League (NFL) and Blackstone. Officials believe Tamura intended to reach NFL offices, but his plans were interrupted before he could reach his target.

As bullets rang out, Morris moved quickly to protect others. After calling 911 and alerting colleagues by radio, he noticed a group of workers approaching the chaos. He directed them into a small closet, silenced his radio to avoid detection, and instructed the group to remain calm and quiet. For several tense minutes, the eight people huddled together, texting loved ones and holding the door shut from inside.

When Morris heard the voices of police officers, he led the group out with their hands raised to ensure their safety amid the ongoing confusion.

Two Blackstone employees rescued by Morris described the fear and disorientation of the situation. One recalled seeing a fallen security guard and hearing commotion just after stepping off the elevator. “We sought shelter. Everything is just kind of hazy,” she said. Another described the cramped closet and the sounds of gunfire and yelling outside before a SWAT team escorted them out.

Morris, still mourning the loss of his friend and colleague Aland Etienne, credited his emergency training provided by Rudin Management for helping him stay composed. A company representative praised Morris, saying, “In addition to showing hospitality, the lobby ambassadors are an instrumental part of our security force.”

While the community continues to grieve the tragic loss of life, Morris’s level-headed actions under pressure stand as a powerful example of courage and duty.