A chaotic and dangerous situation is unfolding in Manhattan as an active shooter opened fire near Park Avenue, injuring an NYPD officer and multiple civilians. Early reports indicate the suspect may be wearing body armor and using a rifle.

NEW YORK, NY (2-minute read) — A terrifying scene unfolded Monday near Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan after an armed suspect opened fire near the Blackstone Building, injuring an NYPD officer and several others in a chaotic and still-developing active shooter event.

According to early reports, the suspect, described as a male possibly wearing body armor, used a rifle to shoot multiple people, including an officer who was hit several times. The exact condition of the victims has not yet been released, but sources indicate the officer was critically injured.

🚨 DEVELOPING: Active Shooter in NYC near Park Ave. Blackstone Building

• One Cop Shot Multiple Times
• Multiple People Shot
• Bomb Squad on Site
• Blood Bank called up
• Suspect is Middle Eastern Male
• Suspect reportedly wearing body armor
• Suspect using a rifle pic.twitter.com/l9C2uCWisa

— Alec Lace (@AlecLace) July 28, 2025

Emergency response was swift and intense. NYPD tactical units and the bomb squad were dispatched immediately. A city-wide blood bank call-up has been issued, suggesting multiple trauma patients may be in critical need.

Responding to an Armed Suspect in Body Armor

Law enforcement sources confirm the suspect may be equipped with body armor, a serious concern in active shooter situations. Civilians and responding officers are at a distinct disadvantage when suspects are both heavily armed and shielded. In these cases, shot placement and coordinated tactical response become vital.

The shooter’s motive remains unknown at this stage, and it’s also unclear whether the attack was random, targeted, or ideologically driven.

SECURING THE SCENE

Authorities are combing the area for any additional threats. The presence of the bomb squad may indicate concern over explosive devices, either on the suspect or in the surrounding area. In past incidents, active shooters have sometimes left behind secondary threats to target first responders.

This event is unfolding in one of the busiest commercial corridors in Manhattan, increasing the stakes for law enforcement. Citizens have been urged to avoid the area and shelter in place if nearby.

As this is a developing story, more details will emerge. The NYPD and federal agencies are expected to provide briefings soon.

This is a developing story.

Safety Tip: In an active shooter situation, your first priority should be to escape the area if safe to do so. If escape isn’t possible, find a secure place to hide, silence your phone, and remain quiet. As a concealed carrier, always understand your local laws and be mentally prepared—situational awareness saves lives