Gunman Kills Guard And Then Self At NYC Federal Building

A gunman slipped through a side door of a Manhattan federal building late Friday, fatally shot a security guard, then killed himself, police said.

The gunman was identified as Kevin Downing, a man in his late 60s from Fort Lee, N.J. He died at the scene, at Houston and Varick streets, police said. The security guard, identified as Idrissa Camara, was shot at close range and died in the hospital.

Downing's motive and intended target was unclear, said NYPD Chief James P. O'Neill at a news conference outside the building.

O'Neill said the gunman walked into the building at 5:05 p.m., and approached the security guard at a metal detector. "He immediately pulled out a gun and shot the security guard at close range," O'Neill said.

The shooter then walked toward the elevators, encountered another person, and shot himself in the head, O'Neill said.

Camara, 53, was supposed to have gotten off work at 4 p.m. but agreed to stay on for an extra shift, FJC Security Services said.

"Camara ... was an extraordinary Senior Guard who was well trained, cared deeply about his job and knew that building better than anyone else," said Michael McKeon, a spokesman for the security company.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family. We intend to do everything we can to stand with them during this very difficult time."

No other suspects were being sought and there was no indication of terrorism, O'Neill said.

In eyewitness video, police can be seen clearing the street and telling people to “get down.”

This article has been updated, and some earlier statements by those at the scene have been removed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.