[HenryLeeII]

Or perhaps the metal detectors are a visible but non-functional deterrent. I used to work in a highly-visited public building in which the metal detectors were not operating because that would cost too much money, but were left in the entrance area as a visual deterrent.

[Hillary's Lovely Legs]

Fox News is reporting that the shooter may have had some sort of clearance to bring in a gun or used a private entrance that did not have magnometres.

[Labyrinthos]

Or perhaps the metal detectors are a visible but non-functional deterrent.

Don't be surprised if the gunman worked at City Hall and /or was one of the few people in NYC allowed to legally carry a gun. If he worked in the building, security may have waived him in without security screening. In fact, I seem to recall a seperate entrance where city employees with proper ID are allowed to enter the buiding without having to go through the metal detector. If he had any political clout, then there is also a chance that he may have had a carry permit, because liberal politcols and famous people apparently have a greater need for a gun that the average Joe < /sarcasm >.