Blackstone and the financial world are in mourning following a tragic shooting at the firm’s Manhattan headquarters that claimed the lives of four people, including esteemed executive Wesley LePatner. The incident occurred at Blackstone’s 345 Park Avenue office, where a gunman entered the building and opened fire, ultimately taking his own life.

Wesley LePatner, a leading figure in real estate investing, served as the global head of Core+ Real Estate and CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust (BREIT). She was widely regarded for her brilliance, leadership, and generous spirit. LePatner joined Blackstone in 2014 after a successful tenure at Goldman Sachs and became instrumental in reshaping the firm’s real estate unit, guiding its expansion into a multibillion-dollar enterprise.

Colleagues remember LePatner not just for her professional achievements but for her warmth and commitment to her team and the broader industry. Her legacy extends beyond her business accomplishments; she was also a Yale graduate and a trustee of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, known for giving back to her community. Her loss is deeply felt by the entire Blackstone family and the many people within and outside the firm who admired her.

In addition to LePatner, three others lost their lives in this senseless act of violence, including a New York Police Department officer and other building personnel. The event has sent shockwaves throughout Midtown Manhattan and the financial community, highlighting the profound impact of unexpected tragedy.

As Blackstone, employees, friends, and family mourn, they remember Wesley LePatner’s remarkable leadership, her vision for the future, and her enduring humanity. The legacy she leaves behind is a testament to her impact on the industry and the lives she touched.