Suspect's Note Reveals CTE Concerns, Highlighting Risks in Football

Shane Tamura, the individual responsible for the recent shooting in Midtown Manhattan, left a note referencing the brain disease CTE. New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that the note mentioned CTE and the NFL. The note suggested Tamura believed he had CTE and blamed the NFL for his condition.

While Tamura never played in the NFL, investigators suspect he may have targeted the NFL offices within the building where the shooting occurred. A three-page note found on Tamura indicated his desire to donate his brain for scientific research.

CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is a brain disease commonly found in athletes who participate in contact sports. It is a degenerative condition resulting from repeated head injuries, leading to the death of brain cells. Although CTE is often associated with professional athletes, it has also been identified in student-athletes.

Dr. Anne McKee, director of the CTE Center at Boston University, noted that high school football players are also at risk. A study revealed that approximately 30% of former high school football players had CTE. The disease can develop even without a concussion, as repeated minor hits can cause significant damage.

CTE progresses through four stages, leading to inflammation, vascular changes, and nerve cell damage. The injury to the brain persists even after the head trauma stops, creating a cycle of damage. The only way to diagnose CTE is through an autopsy of brain tissue.

Early symptoms of CTE include irritability, inattention, and behavioral changes. As the disease progresses, it can lead to memory loss, dementia, and other cognitive and emotional issues. The Mayo Clinic reports that additional symptoms can include trouble thinking and planning, mood changes, suicidal thoughts, substance misuse, balance and walking problems, shaking, and speech difficulties.

CTE has gained more attention in recent years as more cases are found in former NFL players. The NFL has implemented changes to prevent head injuries, including new rules and equipment. However, Dr. McKee believes more action is needed, including changes to the rules and styles of play, eliminating head hits in practice and games, and monitoring players for the number of hits they sustain.