New York – The city is in mourning as the identity of one of the five victims in the shocking shooting at the 345 Park building in Midtown Manhattan has been released: Didarul Islam, a security guard who was moonlighting for the New York Police Department (NYPD), a devoted husband and father of two young children, who died while trying to protect others.
Islam, 38, of Bangladeshi descent, was described by his co-workers as “always smiling, never refusing to help.” He was on duty on the 19th floor of the office building Tuesday morning when gunman Shane D. Tamura began shooting uncontrollably. Instead of running, Islam is believed to have rushed into the line of fire to warn others, and may have saved the lives of at least three people before being fatally shot.
One survivor recounted:
“He shouted ‘Run!’ and ran straight at the shooter. His sacrifice gave us time to run to the emergency stairs. Without Didarul, me and a young girl would not have survived.”
Islam has worked for the NYPD as a security support worker for more than 10 years. To make ends meet in one of the most expensive cities in the US, he often took on extra shifts in office buildings on weekends and holidays.
The Islam family is now engulfed in tragedy. His wife – who is six months pregnant with their third child – is facing an irreparable loss. She is being cared for by community organizations and her neighbors in the Queens neighborhood where they live have set up a small memorial table with flowers and white candles.
A close friend in the Bangladeshi community in New York shared through tears:
“Didarul was a symbol of sacrifice. He always put others before himself. Now that he is gone, we are heartbroken for the three children who are about to grow up without a father.”
The NYPD flew the flag at half-staff at its headquarters in Islam’s honor, and the Mayor of New York was at the scene to offer his deepest condolences. A financial support fund was set up overnight to help Islam’s wife and children through this difficult time.
The Unsung Hero
In a city that is bustling and cold, Didarul Islam was one of those unsung heroes that no one noticed – until the day he fell. His death has awakened millions of hearts, reminding us all that sacrifice is not only on the battlefield, but also in everyday acts – when a father is willing to give his life to save another.
The shooting at 345 Park is still under investigation. The suspect, Shane D. Tamura, was arrested after a more than 40-minute standoff with police. His motive is still unclear, but the tragedy has left a deep wound not only in New York, but also in the world.
Take a moment of silence for Didarul Islam – a father, a husband, and the ultimate hero of that chaotic day.
