Tragic Shooting at Blackstone HQ Claims Senior Executive

A gunman opened fire in Blackstone Inc's Midtown Manhattan office, resulting in the death of senior executive Wesley LePatner. Blackstone called it the 'worst day in the firm's history.' CEO Stephen Schwarzman and President Jon Gray closed the New York office and scheduled a Zoom call to address the tragedy.

A tragic shooting unfolded at Blackstone Inc's New York headquarters on Monday, claiming the life of senior executive Wesley LePatner. A gunman, armed with an assault rifle, entered the 345 Park Avenue office building and opened fire.

LePatner served as a senior managing director, Global Head of Core+ Real Estate, and Chief Executive Officer of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust (BREIT). The incident left the firm reeling, with strong words of grief from Blackstone's leadership.

Company leaders, CEO Stephen Schwarzman and President Jon Gray, expressed the gravity of the tragedy, labeling it the 'worst day in the firm's 40-year history'. In response, the New York office was closed on Tuesday, with a Zoom call scheduled to address staff.

(With inputs from agencies.)