Report | An account of heroism from the police officer who lost his life in the Midtown multiple shooting incident
In remembrance of Officer Didarul Islam, a hero who lost his life in the line of duty, we pay our respects today. This Bangladeshi-American NYPD officer was tragically killed during a mass shooting on Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan on July 28, 2025.
Officer Islam, who was only 36 years old, was born in Kulaura, Moulvibazar district, Bangladesh, and immigrated to New York City in 2009. He joined the NYPD in 2021 and served in the 47th Precinct in the Bronx.
At the time of his death, Officer Islam was working an off-duty security detail at a building in Midtown Manhattan. He was the first to respond when a gunman entered the building and opened fire. His bravery saved numerous lives before he was fatally shot.
Officer Islam is survived by his loving wife, Jamila Akhter, who was eight months pregnant at the time of his death, their two young sons, and his elderly parents. He also left behind a legacy of kindness, as he was known to donate money and personal time to the nearby Bronx Islamic Cultural Center.
The loss of Officer Didarul Islam is deeply felt not only by those who knew him best but by the city of New York as a whole. He embodied the spirit of the NYPD, a department sworn to uphold the law and keep the people of New York safe from all distress. Every time an NYPD officer puts on the uniform, they risk their lives to protect us all.
In honor of Officer Islam's memory, we should recommit to an unflinching support of the NYPD and to promoting acts of kindness in our communities. Let us remember Officer Islam and his family in our thoughts and prayers, and let us strive to follow his example of bravery and selflessness.
[1] New York Times, "NYPD Officer Killed in Manhattan Shooting Remembered as Hero", July 29, 2025. [2] CNN, "NYPD Officer Killed in Manhattan Shooting Identified", July 29, 2025. [3] Associated Press, "Motive Unclear in Manhattan Shooting that Killed NYPD Officer", July 29, 2025. [4] CBS News, "NYPD Officer Killed in Manhattan Shooting Honored as Hero", July 30, 2025. [5] NBC News, "NYPD Officer Killed in Manhattan Shooting Lauded as Hero", July 31, 2025.
- The general-news headlines paid tribute to Officer Didarul Islam, praising him as a hero and expressing condolences for his tragic death during a shootout in Manhattan.
- Despite the ongoing crime-and-justice investigations, the sports events and political debates took a backseat as New Yorkers honored Officer Didarul Islam's memory, recognizing his ultimate sacrifice for the safety and security of the city.
