Hundreds honor security guard killed in New York office tower shooting
Share and Follow


NEW YORK (AP) — Hundreds turned out to honor the life of Aland Etienne, the security guard who was killed last month at a Manhattan office tower by a gunman targeting the headquarters of the National Football League.

An immigrant from Haiti who came to the U.S. in 2017 with a dream for a new life, Etienne was remembered as a dedicated father and grandfather who was faithfully working at his security post when the gunman suddenly opened fire 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 was held Saturday in Brooklyn for Etienne, 46, the last of the four shooting victims to be laid to rest. A New York City police officer, an investment firm executive and a real estate firm worker were also killed. The gunman wounded a fifth person before taking his own life.

Like Etienne, slain NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, who was working a department-approved private security detail that day, was an immigrant. Islam was Bangladeshi-American.

Manny Pastreich, president of Etienne’s union, 32BJ SEIU, said Etienne represents not only essential workers who are the backbone of New York City, but also immigrants who come to the U.S. to build a better life and contribute in both large and small ways.

“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 and Follow
You May Also Like

Exploring the Stories of Leaders Who Escaped During Uprisings

JOHANNESBURG – Numerous once-untouchable leaders have found themselves on the run, seeking…

Decatur Welcomes New Horse Therapy Facility: A Fresh Start for Equine-Assisted Healing

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — A local nonprofit in Decatur known for offering…

Government Shutdown Highlights Vulnerabilities in U.S. Aviation System

An unexpected broadcast emerged from an air traffic control tower near Los…

Government Shutdown Delays Announcement of Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment

WASHINGTON – As the government shutdown drags on, it has cast a…

Decade-Long Mystery: New Port Richey Police Intensify Search for Woman Missing for 10 Years

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. (WFLA) — A decade has passed since the…

Florida Teen Faces Arrest After Faking Own Kidnapping and Accidental Shooting, Authorities Report

A 17-year-old from Dunnellon, Florida, is facing charges after allegedly faking his…

Storm Team 3 Predicts Warm Afternoons and Crisp Mornings Coming Soon

SAVANNAH, Ga. — The weather on Tuesday afternoon treated Savannah residents to…

Renew or Reject? Chatham County’s SPLOST Decision Awaits Voters as Early Polls Open

CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. — The early voting period kicked off on Tuesday…