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The city of New York is in mourning, but also in a state of profound gratitude, for the life and ultimate sacrifice of Detective Didarul Islam, a Bangladeshi-American police officer who was tragically killed in a senseless mass shooting. His funeral, a powerful display of community and solidarity, saw leaders and citizens alike come together to honor a man described as a true hero and a dedicated protector.
In a poignant demonstration of respect, Governor Kathy Hochul attended the funeral service wearing a headscarf, a gesture she later explained was to honor the grieving family's Muslim faith. This act of compassion and decency was a central theme of the day, standing in stark contrast to the insensitive and widely condemned remarks made by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX). After a photo of the Governor in the mosque was posted on social media, Cruz questioned her attire, prompting a swift and powerful response from Hochul. She clarified that her action was a sign of respect, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the diverse community gathered to mourn Officer Islam.
I wore a headscarf to honor a fallen Muslim NYPD officer at his funeral.⁰⁰Respecting a grieving family’s faith is “wut” leaders and anyone with basic decency would do. https://t.co/3fKOCdSnim
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) August 2, 2025
Detective Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh, embodied the best of the American Dream. He came to this country seeking a better life and found his calling in serving and protecting his adopted home. Assigned to the 47th Precinct in the Bronx, he was known for his quiet strength, unwavering purpose, and deep commitment to his work and his community. New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke movingly of the fallen officer, calling him a "true blue New Yorker" and a man of faith who "embodied what this city is all about." Adams, along with Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, and other officials, praised Islam for his bravery and acknowledged that he died as he lived—a hero saving lives.
Tonight, our city is reeling and four innocent families are mourning, including the family of NYPD Officer Didarul Islam who was killed at 345 Park Avenue.
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) July 29, 2025
He represented the best of New York City, an immigrant from Bangladesh who put on a uniform to protect and serve us all.
The funeral service was a testament to the high regard in which Detective Islam was held. He leaves behind a wife, two young children, and a third on the way. His family's immense loss is shared by the entire city, which has rallied to support them. In her remarks, Governor Hochul underscored the need for greater support and gratitude for the police force, emphasizing that officers like Islam, who willingly put their lives on the line, deserve the unwavering support of the public they serve. The city's collective sorrow is a powerful reminder of the profound cost of violence, and the community's response is a tribute to the legacy of a man who gave everything for his city.
