New York City: A father and serving police officer, Didarul Islam, 36, was among four individuals killed in a shooting at an office building on Park Avenue, a busy district of New York City. Islam, who had migrated from Bangladesh, was shot while providing security for the site. Officials confirmed he had two children and his wife was expecting a third. He has been hailed a hero for his actions during the incident.
According to BBC, New York Mayor Eric Adams praised Islam for his bravery, stating he was "doing what he does best... saving lives" and "protecting New Yorkers." The attacker, identified as Tamura, reportedly shot Islam first upon entering the skyscraper at 345 Park Avenue, before targeting others and ultimately turning the gun on himself on the building’s 33rd floor.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) paid tribute to Islam via their account on X, commending his dedication and sacrifice, emphasizing that he "represented the very best of our department" and was "protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today."
During a press conference, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch revealed that Islam served in the NYPD’s 47th District in the Bronx. She described him as "doing the job that we asked him to do," acknowledging his ultimate sacrifice and heroism. Mayor Adams echoed these sentiments, recognizing Islam as "a true-blue New Yorker" in both spirit and service.
Mayor Adams also shared his personal connection to the tragedy, having met with Islam’s family post-attack. He expressed profound admiration for Islam's service, noting his dedication over three years. Reflecting on the impact, Adams stated, "This was his dad's only son," relating the loss to his own role as a father.
In the aftermath, Islams' Bangladeshi community in the Bronx gathered at his home to offer support to his family. The New York Times reported on Islam’s journey from Bangladesh, his previous role providing school security, and his transition to policing. Community members highlighted his active role in mentoring young men at his mosque.
One of Islam’s mentees, Marjanul Karim, shared insights into Islam’s career shift from a safer school environment to law enforcement. "He wanted to leave behind a legacy for his family, something they could be proud of," Karim commented, reinforcing the late officer’s commitment to a meaningful life.