Bronx, New York | A Soundview street now bears the name of a fallen NYPD officer. On Saturday, July 18, 2026, family, fellow officers, community members, elected officials, and senior NYPD leaders gathered for an emotional co-naming ceremony honoring Detective First Grade Didarul Islam. The street was officially renamed "Detective First Grade Didarul Islam Way."
At the ceremony, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch spoke of Islam as a courageous officer, devoted husband, loving father, and proud member of New York City's diverse community. The naming, she said, ensures his legacy of service and sacrifice will be remembered for generations.
How Did Officer Didarul Islam Die?
Detective Islam was killed in the line of duty on July 28, 2025. He was working a security assignment at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan when, at approximately 6:28 p.m., a 27-year-old gunman from Las Vegas — Shane Devon Tamura — entered the building with an AR-15-style rifle and opened fire in the lobby.
Investigators say Islam was the first person fatally shot in the attack. The rampage continued as Tamura killed three other victims and injured several more before taking an elevator to the 33rd floor, where he died by suicide.
Authorities later revealed that Tamura had apparently targeted the building because he believed he was suffering from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head injuries. He blamed the NFL for his condition. A postmortem examination confirmed he did have CTE.
A Bangladeshi-American Hero
Born in Bangladesh, Islam immigrated to the United States and realized his dream of public service by joining the NYPD. Over nearly four years with the department, he earned the respect of colleagues and the community for his professionalism, dedication, and courage.
After his death, the NYPD posthumously promoted him to Detective First Grade, recognizing his extraordinary service and ultimate sacrifice.
He is survived by his wife and children. At the time of his death, his wife was pregnant with their third child, who was born after his passing. His wife and three children attended the street-naming ceremony, making the occasion especially emotional for those present.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Community leaders described the co-naming as more than a tribute to a fallen officer — it is a recognition of a Bangladeshi-American who gave his life protecting others. The newly designated "Detective First Grade Didarul Islam Way" will stand as a permanent reminder of his heroism and inspire future generations of New Yorkers.
