NYPD Honors Didarul Islam: Immigrant Muslim Hero Lost in Midtown Shooting

The New York Police Department has paid poignant tribute to Officer Didarul Islam, a Bangladeshi‑born Muslim immigrant who died in the line of duty protecting New York City. Known for his unwavering faith, family devotion, and dedication to public service, Islam's loss has resonated deeply across the city and beyond.

According to official sources cited by local media, Didarul Islam, 36, arrived from Bangladesh and began his American journey working as a school security guard in the Bronx. Driven by a desire to make a lasting impact, he joined the NYPD's 47th Precinct, serving for three and a half years "with dedication and integrity." He was a father of two, and his wife was eight months pregnant with their third child at the time of his death.

Within his Bronx Muslim community, Islam was actively involved in mentoring youth and encouraging them toward service and civic engagement. He had completed the pilgrimage to Mecca just last year.

Tragedy Strikes: A Father's Stroke

Islam was the first to confront the shooter at 345 Park Avenue, where he was working off‑duty in full uniform as part of a private security assignment. According to NYC Mayor Eric Adams, he was shot in the lobby and later died at the scene. His actions undoubtedly prevented further tragedy.

"He was doing what he does best, and all members of the police department carry out. He was saving lives," said Adams.

The emotional toll on his family was devastating. Upon hearing the news, his father suffered a medical emergency, reportedly a stroke, and was hospitalized, a family member told The New York Post. His pregnant wife was rushed to the hospital, overwhelmed by grief as the family struggled to absorb unimaginable loss.

NYPD's Official Statement

In a heartfelt public statement, the NYPD said:

"Police Officer Didarul Islam represented the very best of our department. He was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today. We join in prayer during this time of incomprehensible pain. We will forever honor his legacy."

Commissioner Jessica Tisch echoed that sentiment at a press briefing:

"He was doing the job that we asked him to do... He put himself in harm's way. He died as he lived: a hero."

Mayor Eric Adams emphasized Islam's character and immigrant roots:

"He was an immigrant from Bangladesh ... a person of faith ... he embodies what this city is all about. A true‑blue New Yorker, not only in uniform but in spirit." Flags were ordered to fly at half‑staff across NYC in his honor, and state flags mirrored the gesture.

A powerful comment shared widely online summed up Islam's resonance:

"This is a lesson for all of us. A Bangladeshi Muslim with the last name Islam was defending NYC. When it is a terrorist with a Muslim name the media amplifies it. Let's amplify the fact that a Muslim man proudly defended one of the largest cities in America."

That sentiment reflects how deeply many feel compelled to counteract bias—and to reinforce that Muslim Americans are an integral part of the city's fabric.

Legacy and Lessons

Community leaders and civic organizations, including CAIR‑NY, extended condolences and praised Islam's role as both protector and bridge‑builder. His mentorship in the Bronx Muslim community highlights his commitment to service beyond his official duties.

"We extend our condolences to the family of New York City Police Department officer Didarul Islam and the other victims of yesterday's shooting in Manhattan. Officer Islam was the father of two children, and his wife is expecting their third child. We pray that God grants comfort, guidance and relief to his family and to the families of the other victims. To Allah we belong, and to Allah we return. We also strongly denounce those anti-Muslim bigots and anti-Palestinian racists who gleefully rushed to blame yesterday's mass shooting on Muslims and Palestinians without any evidence. Even now, some of these voices are still denigrating Officer Islam and spreading anti-Muslim bigotry. The blind hatred that would lead someone to respond to tragedies like this shooting with such racism and bigotry must end. #RIPOfficerIslam, stated their statement.

Governor Kathy Hochul also paid tribute, underscoring that "an attack on one of us is an attack on all of us," and renewed calls for federal action on gun violence prevention in light of Islam's heroism.