Newly Unearthed 911 Calls Expose Mother's Warnings About Manhattan Shooter's Mental State

New Details Emerge About the Shooter’s Background and Mental Health Struggles

Recent police reports and body camera footage have provided new insights into the life of Shane Devon Tamura, a 27-year-old man who embarked on a cross-country journey from Las Vegas to Manhattan, where he carried out a deadly mass shooting before taking his own life. The incident at 345 Park Avenue marked the city's deadliest mass shooting in 25 years.

Tamura was armed with an AR-15 style rifle when he entered the building on July 28. His actions led to the deaths of four people, raising serious questions about his mental health history and whether it could have prevented him from owning a firearm. However, it remains unclear if his past would have triggered Nevada’s red flag law, which allows for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

A History of Mental Health Concerns

Tamura’s mother played a critical role in highlighting his struggles. In September 2022, she called 911 from her car outside a Las Vegas motel after her son, then 24, was threatening to take his own life. She described him as being emotional and destructive, slamming objects while crying. Tamura had told her he “just can’t take it anymore.”

He suffered from depression, insomnia, migraines, and lingering symptoms from a concussion sustained during a sports injury. Police responded to the call and filed an emergency petition to commit him to a mental health facility. This was not the first time Tamura had faced such challenges.

Two years later, in August 2024, his mother again contacted authorities after Tamura expressed suicidal thoughts. He reportedly said, “I’m not going to be able to go any further.” Tamura was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. When officers arrived at his apartment, they found him calm and cooperative. Despite this, he was once again committed to a mental health facility for treatment.

Questions About Gun Laws and Background Checks

Experts note that mental health records are often difficult for law enforcement to access. Tamura held a concealed carry license in Nevada, which may have exempted him from additional background checks in subsequent years. Under federal law, individuals on a 48-hour psychiatric hold can still possess firearms if released after that period.

The weapon used in the Manhattan shooting was legally purchased last year by Tamura’s supervisor at a Las Vegas casino. According to two law enforcement officials, the supervisor assembled the rifle and sold it to Tamura for $1,400. It is unclear whether a background check was conducted during this transaction.

Legal Troubles and Behavioral Issues

Tamura also had a history of legal issues. In September 2023, he was charged with criminal trespass after being ejected from a Las Vegas casino for refusing to show identification when trying to cash in chips. Security officials described him as an “irate guest” who became agitated and claimed the casino had stolen $6,000 from him. Police removed him from the premises in handcuffs, but the case was eventually dropped.

In May 2024, Tamura was pulled over for driving a vehicle without license plates. Although he presented his license and registration, officers discovered that his license had been suspended due to multiple traffic violations. He was issued a citation for operating an unregistered vehicle and driving without a valid license.

Evidence Found After the Shooting

Following the Manhattan shooting, police executed a search warrant at Tamura’s Las Vegas apartment. They recovered several items, including a rifle bipod, an empty gun case, ammunition, and a single rifle cartridge. Investigators also found a notebook containing what appeared to be a goodbye note, prescription bottles, and miscellaneous paperwork.

Tamura’s suicide note mentioned his struggles with CTE, a brain disease linked to head trauma, including concussions. He had once been a celebrated high school football star and expressed grievances with the NFL in his note, requesting that his brain be studied for signs of the condition.

These findings add to the growing concern about how mental health and legal systems can fail to prevent tragedies like the one in Manhattan. As more details emerge, the need for better communication between mental health professionals, law enforcement, and firearm regulations becomes increasingly evident.