Roger Goodell and the entire NFL community are receiving an outpouring of support following a deadly shooting that shook the league’s headquarters in New York City.
Goodell, 66, has led the NFL since 2006 and remains one of the most prominent figures in American sports. But on Monday night, his workplace became the focus of a horrifying incident.
A man opened fire in a major office building at 345 Park Avenue. And the same building houses the NFL’s main offices. Tragically, four people were killed, and the shooter ultimately took his own life.
Authorities later identified the gunman as a former high school football player who reportedly blamed the NFL for long-term effects of CTE, a brain condition linked to repeated head trauma in contact sports.
“He did have a note on him,” said NYC Mayor Eric Adams on CBS Mornings. “The note alluded to the fact that he felt he had CTE and blamed the NFL for his injury.”
Goodell’s Office Believed to Be the Target
According to reports, the shooter intended to reach the NFL’s floor. But took the wrong elevator and ended up at a different office: Rudin Management, where the fatal shootings occurred.
One longtime NFL employee, Craig Clementi, was also injured. Clementi, who works in the league’s finance department, was struck in the back by what may have been a ricocheting bullet.
Despite being wounded, Clementi showed incredible courage, calling fellow employees to warn them and urge evacuation as he was rushed to the hospital. NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that Goodell later confirmed Clementi was in stable condition and praised his bravery.
The NFL community is now grieving alongside the families of the victims. And many are sending prayers for Roger Goodell, the league’s employees, and everyone affected by the tragic attack.
Though it’s unclear if Goodell was in the building during the incident, the emotional toll of this attempted attack on his workplace is undeniable.
Our thoughts remain with the victims and their families. May they rest in peace.
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