CNN's Erin Burnett Under Fire for Misidentifying NYC Shooter's Race in Live NFL HQ Coverage
CNN primetime anchor Erin Burnett, one of the network's most recognizable faces, is facing mounting criticism for an on-air statement during her live broadcast on the Park Avenue mass shooting in Manhattan.
While reporting the unfolding situation, Burnett identified the shooter as 'possibly white'—a claim that contradicted the NYPD's initial description, which cited the suspect as 'possibly Middle Eastern.' The remark has ignited a social media storm, drawing attention not just to the incident, but to how race is reported in breaking news by major networks.
Erin Burnett: CNN's Star Anchor Draws Flak
As host of Erin Burnett OutFront, the journalist is known for her sharp delivery and global reporting experience.
But this time, Burnett became the story. While narrating the chaos surrounding the Park Avenue shooting near the NFL headquarters, she described the alleged gunman based on early surveillance visuals. Viewers were quick to notice the contradiction with the police dispatch, which had already reported the suspect as potentially Middle Eastern.
Within minutes, #ErinBurnett trended on X (formerly Twitter), where users accused CNN of misrepresenting racial identities in real-time reporting.
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One widely shared post said, 'Erin Burnett looked at security footage of Park Avenue shooter Shane Tamura and declared him 'possibly white' on air. The footage showed a man with dark hair and complexion.'
The Shooter: A Closer Look at
Shane D. Tamura
The shooter, identified as Shane D. Tamura, 27, opened fire near Midtown's high-security zone, directly across from the NFL's headquarters at 345 Park Avenue. The attack resulted in four deaths, including a decorated NYPD officer, Didarul Islam, two civilians, and a private security guard.
Tamura then fatally shot himself on the 33rd floor.
Tamura had a documented mental health history and was formerly based in Las Vegas. He reportedly harbored grudges toward sports institutions, with previous online posts reflecting his resentment over a failed football career. Investigators are still probing his motive but have ruled out links to terrorism.
Early NYPD alerts described him as having a 'Middle Eastern appearance,' triggering further backlash against CNN's on-air reporting.
Another viral user post read, '@CNN self-proclaimed 'Most Trusted News,' said the NYC shooter was a white male. Told you they are fake news.'
The Narrative Problem in Real-Time News
The backlash underscores a larger issue in 24/7 news broadcasting—narrative framing before confirmed facts. Burnett's brief remark, though based on visual cues, added fuel to ongoing debates around media responsibility, racial assumptions, and credibility in high-stakes live reporting.
Critics argue that major outlets must exercise greater caution, especially when visuals and official statements diverge. As of now, CNN has not issued an official statement addressing Burnett's comment or the controversy it triggered. The network continues its coverage of the Park Avenue shooting aftermath, but viewer trust remains a key issue.
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FAQs
1. Who is Shane D. Tamura?
Shane D. Tamura was a 27-year-old gunman involved in the NYC mass shooting. He had a troubled past, including mental health issues and a failed sports career.
2. How many people died in the Park Avenue shooting?
Four people were killed—an NYPD officer, two civilians, a private security guard—and the shooter died by suicide.
3. Did Erin Burnett correct her race comment later?
No public correction or statement has been issued by either Erin Burnett or CNN, despite the growing backlash.
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