Mourners Honor Didarul Islam in New York Mosque
On Thursday, friends, family, and community members gathered in a New York mosque to pay tribute to Didarul Islam, a police officer originally from Bangladesh who was tragically killed earlier this week during a shooting at an office building in Manhattan.
Celebrating His Life and Service
Islam, 36, was dedicated to serving his community and protecting the city he called home. During the memorial service held at the Parkchester Jame Masjid, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reflected on Islam’s commitment to the American dream, stating, “Officer Didarul Islam did believe in the American dream, not as something handed down but as something built with your own hands.”
The memorial was attended by numerous dignitaries and members of New York’s vibrant Bangladeshi community who recognized Islam’s devotion to his family, cultural heritage, and his role in law enforcement. Officers also gathered outside the mosque to show their support.
Tragic Circumstances of His Death
A married father of two, with a third child expected soon, Officer Islam was working a private security detail when he was killed alongside three others during the shooting at the building that houses the NFL headquarters. His widow’s heartfelt message was shared by a relative at the ceremony, stating, “To our family, he was our world. To the city, he was a proud NYPD officer who served with compassion and integrity. He lived to help others.”
In a show of respect, firefighters held a massive American flag above the street with their ladders, while a flatbed truck displayed a digital screen featuring photos of Islam along with a tribute from his union.
Support from Officials
Islam began his career in the NYPD as a school safety agent before becoming a patrol officer less than four years ago, and he was posthumously promoted to detective. Mayor Eric Adams commended Islam’s selflessness, stating, “He could have gone into any other occupation he wanted, but he wanted to put on that uniform, and he wanted to protect fellow New Yorkers… That’s the greatest symbol of what we know we are as a country.”
President Donald Trump also extended condolences through White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who remarked that Islam “made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of his fellow New Yorkers.”
Community Reflection and Loss
Imam Zakir Ahmed highlighted Islam’s immigrant background and Muslim faith during the service, urging the community to recognize and embrace diversity. “It’s time for New York and America to give back — to see us, to hear us, to protect our dignity, the way Officer Islam protected yours,” he said.
Islam supported both his family in the Bronx and his parents in Bangladesh. According to Deputy Inspector Muhammad Ashraf, he was a “humble, steady and reliable” officer who truly understood the significance of his service.
A Somber Day of Mourning
After the memorial, attendees knelt in prayer, with some Muslim officers participating. As Officer Islam’s casket, draped in U.S. and NYPD flags, was loaded into a hearse for burial in Totowa, New Jersey, solemn salutes were given by his fellow officers.
Remembering Other Victims
On the same day, the funeral for Wesley LePatner, a 43-year-old investment executive and another victim of the shooting, was held. Her husband, Evan LePatner, lamented the immense loss during her eulogy at Central Synagogue in Manhattan, describing a “huge gaping Mount Everest-size hole in my life right now.” Another victim, 27-year-old Julia Hyman, was also mourned in an emotional service just days after the incident.
Authorities identified the shooter as Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old who recently worked in casino surveillance. Investigators found over 800 rounds of ammunition in his vehicle, raising concerns about his mental health history. The incident also severely injured an NFL employee.
Governor Kathy Hochul remarked, “Islam saved lives. He was out front. Others may be alive today because he was the barrier,” highlighting the courage and sacrifice of Officer Didarul Islam.
