August 12, 2025

Press Contact: media@haitianbridge.org , info@haitianbridge.org 

HAITIAN BRIDGE ALLIANCE MOURNS ALAND ETIENNE, BELOVED SECURITY GUARD OF HAITIAN DESCENT KILLED ON DUTY IN NYC

SAN DIEGO, CA — Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) mourns the heartbreaking death of Aland Etienne, a Haitian immigrant and devoted father of two who was fatally shot while working unarmed as a security officer in Midtown Manhattan on July 29, 2025. Etienne, a member of 32BJ SEIU with more than six years of service at 345 Park Avenue, was widely remembered by his family, union, and community as a dedicated professional and New York City hero. Our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with the families and loved ones of Wesley LePatner, Didarul Islam, and Julia Hyman, who were also tragically killed by the gunman. The funeral was held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York. 

Guerline Jozef, Executive Director of Haitian Bridge Alliance, issued the following statement: 

“Aland Etienne embodied courage, service, and the enduring spirit of the Haitian diaspora in the United States. He honored his community by showing up every day to protect others, and his loss has left a void no words can heal. We demand justice and accountability for his senseless death and call on city and building officials to strengthen protections and support for security workers. Etienne’s passing is not just a personal tragedy—it is a sharp reminder of the systemic vulnerabilities immigrant workers face, and the urgent need for safe workplaces and racial justice.”

“Further damages could have been done, more people could have died. He died as a hero, sacrificing his life for others. Rest in Peace Landy Kwey” – Gathman Etienne, brother of Etienne.