What began as a routine evening in Midtown Manhattan turned into a horrifying tragedy when a gunman opened fire near one of the city’s busiest office buildings.
Among the five lives lost was Officer Didarul Islam, a father, husband, and devoted public servant who was working a second job to support his growing family.
A Hero Lost in the Line of Duty
Officer Islam, 36, wasn’t even on active NYPD duty at the time of the shooting.
He had taken on extra work in private security to support his pregnant wife and their two sons, with a third child on the way.
On Monday evening, while on duty for Rudin Management Company, he was shot in the back and killed by a heavily armed gunman outside 365 Park Avenue—the same building that houses the NFL offices and Blackstone.
Islam’s death has left a gaping hole in the NYPD and the city he served so selflessly.
His colleagues, city officials, and the public are mourning a man described as courageous, humble, and deeply committed to protecting New Yorkers.
Remembering Officer Islam: Tributes Pour In
The outpouring of emotion and tributes began almost immediately after the news broke.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, himself a former NYPD officer, praised Islam’s bravery:
“He was doing what he does best—saving lives and protecting New Yorkers.
He loved this city and lived by his faith and his values.”
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch echoed that sentiment:
“He died as he lived—a hero. Shot in cold blood while wearing a uniform that stood for a promise he made to New York City.”
And Patrick Hendry, head of the Police Benevolent Association, called the loss “devastating,” highlighting Islam’s dedication to his job and his family.
“He showed up every day to do his job and provide for his family—through overtime, side jobs, whatever it took.”
The Gunman and the Rampage
The shooter was identified as 27-year-old Shane Tamura, originally from Las Vegas.
Armed with an M4 assault rifle outfitted with a silencer, scope, and strap, Tamura launched his attack around 6:30 p.m., beginning in the building’s lobby with nearly 30 people inside.
Dressed in a blazer and button-down shirt, he looked like any other office worker—until he pulled out his weapon and began firing.
Islam was reportedly the first person to confront the shooter and was killed during the initial exchange.
Tamura then made his way to the 33rd floor, where he was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigators believe he may have been targeting a specific group—possibly the NFL offices.
Chaos Captured on Camera
Security footage and videos from passersby show a chaotic scene: heavily armed officers swarming the building, victims being carried out, and terrified bystanders fleeing.
One witness told The New York Post that it sounded like “a barrage of shots, like a high-capacity weapon.”
Others said the gunman simply walked in and started shooting.
Two other people—a man and a woman—were briefly detained at the scene.
The man reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” and claimed he was not the shooter.
The woman had a head injury. Their connection to the shooter remains unclear.
Who Was Shane Tamura?
Tamura’s background is still being pieced together.
Originally from Hawaii, he reportedly played high school football and had no immediate ties to the location of the attack.
CNN’s law enforcement analysts suggest this may have been a “last stand” for the gunman—one he fully intended to end in death.
Photos released by authorities show a bloodied rifle, believed to be the weapon used in the shooting.
What triggered his rampage remains unknown, though FBI agents are now involved in the investigation.
A City Reacts in Grief
As the shock settled over New York, leaders across the state voiced their condolences.
Governor Kathy Hochul said she was being briefed and expressed her sorrow for the victims.
Attorney General Letitia James said she was praying for everyone affected.
Mayor Adams visited the scene personally and later the hospital where some of the injured were taken.
KPMG, one of the building’s tenants, released a statement praising the bravery of law enforcement and security teams:
“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families.
We’re incredibly grateful for the courage shown.”
“Tonight, a Chair Is Empty”
One of the most powerful tributes came from EMS First, who posted a touching message on Instagram:
“Tonight, a chair at the dinner table is left empty. A family grieves a loss that cannot be measured.
A hero made the ultimate sacrifice.”
A Legacy of Courage
Officer Didarul Islam’s story is a tragic reminder of the silent sacrifices made by those who protect our communities.
He worked hard to support his family, held deep faith, and died defending others.
As the investigation continues, what remains clear is this: New York City lost a true hero, and his courage won’t be forgotten.
