An NYPD officer was shot and killed by a confused gunman in a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper on Monday. The officer, Didalur Islam, 36, was remembered as a devoted family man and a veteran of the force for nearly four years.
Islam, who was married, had been described as someone who embraced his role wholeheartedly. This tragic event unfolded at 345 Park Avenue when he was fatally shot by 27-year-old Shane Tamura, prompting emotional words from the city’s leaders during a press conference.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences, stating, “He was doing his best, and all the members of the police department did it and saved his life.”
Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh, had deep ties to the city. Those who spoke with him shared that he held firm beliefs and respected the community he served.
His wife is currently eight months pregnant, and they have two young boys together, according to various sources.
Having been part of the police force since December 2021, he was assigned to District 47 in the Bronx. Although he was off-duty, he was working security for the building’s management and was in uniform at the time of the shooting.
Here’s the latest on NYC’s mass shooting:
Police Commissioner Jessica Tish highlighted the gravity of the loss, calling Islam’s action “the ultimate sacrifice” and stating, “He died while he was alive: a hero.” She emphasized that he was fulfilling his duty, even at a steep cost.
In a heartfelt address, she extended sympathy to the victims and their families, as well as to the officers who lost their comrades in this tragic incident.
The attack also claimed the lives of three other civilians, while at least one more was injured. Reports indicate that the surviving victims are in serious but stable condition.
Tamura is said to have barricaded himself on the 33rd floor of the building, where he was later found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Initially, it was reported that he traveled across the country before arriving at the scene, armed and prepared.
PBA President Patrick Hendry termed the night “devastating” for the city and its police. He reflected on Islam’s commitment to his job, noting that he took pride in wearing the NYPD uniform to support his family.
Every day, he went to work with the intent to provide for his loved ones.
