He was one of the best in New York.
Officer Didalur Islam, a hero police officer who was shot during a violent rampage in Midtown, is being remembered as an exemplary officer, devoted father, and kind neighbor.
“Officer Didalur Islam embodied the finest qualities of our department,” the NYPD stated. “His life was tragically cut short while protecting New Yorkers from harm. We are mourning his loss and honoring his legacy during this unimaginable pain.”
The lawmaker from City Hall in Washington, D.C., also expressed sorrow and admiration on Tuesday, following the death of the 36-year-old officer at the hands of gunman Shane Tamra during rush hour in Manhattan.
Born in Bangladesh and residing in the Bronx, Islam had served in the military for four years.
“I join countless New Yorkers in mourning the senseless murder of Officer Didalur Islam,” House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement on Tuesday.
“He was truly a hero, and we owe him our lasting gratitude for his bravery and service,” Jeffries acknowledged. “He was tragically killed while performing his duties, embodying the selflessness expected from New York’s finest. He stands for the city and its immigrant narrative.”
On social media, Governor Kathy Hochul labeled him a heroic officer. “He represented the best of New York.”
“As an immigrant from Bangladesh, he joined the NYPD and risked his life for the city,” Hochul added. “Tonight, we will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Mayor Eric Adams also honored the fallen officer.
“Officer Didalur Islam, a hero and protector of New York City, died serving others,” the mayor shared in a separate post. “We will always remember you.”
As for the tragic event, it unfolded when the four-year NYPD veteran was on duty at 345 Park Ave. Around 6:30 p.m., Tamra entered the lobby wielding an AR-15-style assault weapon and opened fire.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tish revealed that Tamra, a security guard from Las Vegas, had traveled across the country and had arrived in New York earlier that day.
After shooting Islam, Tamra went on to kill security guard Aland Etienne and 43-year-old executive Lepatner, before heading to the 33rd floor to kill Rudin Management employee Julia Heyman.
“We lost our brothers, friends, and heroes at the NYPD,” Tish stated in a press video. “Officer Didalur Islam was killed in a uniform respected worldwide.”
Officer Islam’s death serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in the line of duty. “He was aware of the dangers and accepted them,” she noted.
Authorities have identified Tamra’s “associate,” who allegedly helped in constructing the weapon used during the shooting.
Patrick Hendry, president of the NYPD Police Charity Association, shared his sentiments: “Officer Didalur Islam was a hero, standing bravely against pure evil during his shift.” He urged New Yorkers to honor Islam for his courage.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan also offered prayers for the victims and their families. “Yesterday’s tragedy occurred just two blocks from St. Patrick’s Cathedral,” Dolan expressed on Facebook. “We’re heartbroken by the loss. Those affected are in our prayers, and we refuse to accept this violence.”
