Axios's Omission of Manhattan Shooting Perpetrator Photo Aligns with Evolving Journalistic Ethics

A recent tweet by "Zoomer Alcibiades 🐦‍⬛" has drawn attention to the editorial choices of news outlet Axios, specifically questioning the absence of a perpetrator's photograph in a lengthy article. The tweet, dated September 8, 2025, stated, > "In the entire lengthy Axios article they don’t show a single photo of the murderer — why do you think that is?" This query highlights an ongoing debate within journalism regarding the portrayal of individuals involved in violent crimes.

The article in question appears to be Axios's July 29, 2025, report titled "Who are the Manhattan shooting victims," which detailed a tragic incident where four individuals lost their lives. The report identified the suspect as 27-year-old Shane Tamura, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after mistakenly targeting the NFL office. While the article provided detailed profiles and photographs of the victims, it notably omitted any image of the perpetrator.

This decision by Axios aligns with a growing trend among major news organizations to refrain from publishing photographs of mass shooters and other perpetrators of violent acts. Reputable journalistic bodies, such as the Poynter Institute and Nieman Lab, advocate for this practice. The primary rationale is to avoid inadvertently granting notoriety to individuals seeking fame through violence, which research suggests could inspire copycat attacks.

Journalistic ethics emphasize focusing on the victims and the broader impact of such tragedies on the community. Guidelines often recommend against publishing manifestos or social media posts of perpetrators, and generally advise against any content that could glorify or sensationalize their actions. Media outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and CNN have adopted similar policies to prioritize public safety and respect for victims over the public's perceived "right to know" the perpetrator's image.

Axios, known for its concise and fact-based reporting, typically adheres to objective journalistic standards, eschewing traditional editorial pages or partisan stances. Their choice in the Manhattan shooting coverage reflects a deliberate ethical stance aimed at preventing the glorification of violence and ensuring the narrative centers on the human cost of the event rather than the individual responsible. This approach underscores a commitment to responsible reporting in an era of increasing gun violence.