At Brooklyn funeral, Haitian American security officer killed in Midtown shooting remembered for bravery

Family, friends and fellow union members gathered Friday at Guarino Funeral Home to honor Aland Etienne, a Haitian American security officer killed in the July 28 mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Manhattan.

Etienne’s brother, Smith, remembered him as “a humble, steady, kind New York hero” who “made the ultimate sacrifice, choosing bravery and selflessness over fear.”

“My brother will be remembered as a hero,” Smith said in a statement shared by 32BJ SEIU. “In his final moments, he acted to protect others. Aland’s heroism was not only evident in his final act of bravery — it was woven into the fabric of his everyday life. He didn’t seek attention or praise. He simply showed up — for his family, for his colleagues, and for everyone who depended on him.”

Manny Pastreich, president of 32BJ SEIU, called Etienne “a loving father, partner, brother, son” and “a 32BJ union brother” whose last moments were spent ensuring others’ safety.

“We remember Aland’s warmth and generosity to his colleagues and the employees at 345 Park Avenue,” Pastreich said. “We honor and recognize Aland’s heroism as his last moments were focused on saving others.”

Etienne, 46, was among four people killed in the attack, along with an off-duty NYPD officer, a Blackstone executive and a young woman working at Rudin Management. Born in Haiti on May 3, 1979, he immigrated to the United States in 2017 seeking a better life for his family. He had worked at the Park Avenue tower for more than six years.

The Etienne family’s obituary described him as “a steady presence in a noisy world — measured, thoughtful, and strong,” who loved music, laughter, film and, above all, his children. He is survived by his four children, his partner Rachelle Paoli, his parents, siblings and extended family.

Pastreich said Etienne’s death resonated deeply with security officers across New York City, many of whom know the risks of their work. 

“It is every security officer’s worst fear — that they won’t make it home to their families after their shift,” he said.

Union members and tenants have paid tribute to Etienne through vigils and donations to his family. “The generosity of the tenants in the building in honoring his life and legacy and supporting his family speak to his impact,” Pastreich said.

“Aland made the ultimate sacrifice, putting his life on the line to protect the others at 345 Park Avenue,” he added. “Rest in peace, Aland Etienne. You will remain in our hearts and minds — a symbol of courage and sacrifice. Your heroism will not be forgotten.”

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