The NFL is urging teams to implement stronger security measures at their facilities following a shooting incident last month in Manhattan. Authorities reported that the shooter was targeting the league's headquarters. A memo detailing the recommendations was sent to all teams on Friday and will be discussed at a special league meeting scheduled for August 26.
The memo emphasizes the importance of safety, stating, "In moments like these, we are reminded that safety is not a background function. It is foundational." The proposed security enhancements include updated threat assessments at all team and league facilities to accurately identify and mitigate risks. Additionally, the memo calls for armed officers to be present at these facilities whenever players or staff are on site.
Another key recommendation is the implementation of weapons screening for anyone entering a team or league facility. This would involve the use of walk-through metal detectors and X-ray scanners for bags, similar to the security measures in place for entry to games.
The memo acknowledges that these changes will impact daily operations and require significant time, coordination, and resources. It stresses that the safety and security of players, coaches, staff, and all personnel associated with the facilities is the highest priority.
The shooting occurred on July 28, when Shane Tamura, 27, from Las Vegas, allegedly opened fire in the lobby of the office building, injuring several individuals before moving to a 33rd-floor office where he shot another person. Tamura then took his own life. Investigators believe he was attempting to reach the NFL offices during the incident.
Authorities revealed that Tamura had a history of mental illness. A note found on him indicated he had grievances against the NFL, particularly regarding a claim of suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease that can only be diagnosed posthumously. Tamura had played high school football in California about a decade ago but never participated in the NFL.