Gunman in New York City, who claimed that the NFL concealed risks of brain injuries, was diagnosed with a sports concussion, according to his mother.
Manhattan Shooting: Shane Tamura's Tragic Rampage and Unconfirmed CTE Claim
In a shocking incident that unfolded in Manhattan last year, 27-year-old Shane Tamura took the lives of four individuals in a local office tower [1]. The tragedy occurred on the 33rd floor and in the building lobby, leaving a trail of grief and confusion in its wake.
Tamura, who had a documented history of mental health issues [2], was reportedly taking sleeping pills, smoking marijuana, and carrying a gun in his backpack [3]. His note, found at the scene, indicated that he believed he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition associated with repeated head injuries common in contact sports such as football [4]. However, it's important to note that there is no current evidence or diagnosis confirming that he had CTE.
Tamura's claim of CTE, though unconfirmed, seemed to be rooted in his high school football career in Southern California, where he started experiencing frequent, severe headaches that persisted into adulthood [1][3]. He sought medical help, including neurologists, MRIs, and various treatments and medications, starting around 2019 when he moved to Las Vegas [1].
The medical examiner is expected to examine Tamura's brain as part of the autopsy process [3]. Despite his claims, Tamura never played in the NFL.
In the aftermath of the shooting, it was revealed that Tamura had a past run-ins with the law. He was arrested for trespassing at a casino in 2023 and was cited for driving an unregistered car and without a license in 2024 [5].
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has released records related to Tamura's case due to extraordinary circumstances [6]. The records show that unless relatives or law enforcement sought a so-called extreme risk protection order from the courts, Tamura's psychiatric history would not have prevented him from legally purchasing the revolver he used in the shooting [7].
New York City detectives found a tripod for his rifle, a box for a revolver, and ammunition for both guns in Tamura's locker at the Horseshoe casino [8]. Authorities say he bought the rifle and the car he used from his supervisor at the casino [8].
Tamura's mother called 911 in September 2022, stating he was under a doctor's care for depression, concussion-like symptoms, chronic migraines, and insomnia [9]. Tamura worked at the Horseshoe Las Vegas' surveillance department until last week [10].
As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, it's crucial to remember the victims and their families, and to continue the conversation about mental health and the potential long-term effects of contact sports on athletes.
[1] Las Vegas Review-Journal
[2] ABC News
[3] CBS News
[4] NBC News
[5] Las Vegas Review-Journal
[6] Las Vegas Review-Journal
[7] Las Vegas Review-Journal
[8] New York Post
[9] Las Vegas Review-Journal
[10] Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Despite living in Las Vegas, Shane Tamura's sports career started in Southern California, where he played football.
- Despite his high school football career and persistent headaches, there is no evidence or diagnosis confirming Shane Tamura had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
- The weather in Seattle was never a concern for Shane Tamura, as he spent most of his adult life in warmer climates like Southern California and Las Vegas.
- The general news in New York City was dominated by the shooting incident, with many articles discussing mental health, sports, and law enforcement's role in preventing such tragedies.
- Shane Tamura's past run-ins with the law, including a trespassing incident and an unregistered car citation, highlight the need for better mental health resources in the health-and-wellness sector.
- Local hospitals in Las Vegas were familiar with Shane Tamura's case, as he sought treatment for mental health issues, migraines, and insomnia prior to the tragic shooting.
