NYN Correspondent:
A once-ordinary Bronx intersection now carries the name of a fallen officer whose final act became part of New York City’s memory. The corner of East 172nd Street and Beach Avenue was formally dedicated as Detective First Grade Didarul Islam Way, creating a permanent tribute to a Bangladeshi American police officer remembered for courage, service, and sacrifice.
The street renaming ceremony was held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Bronx. Community members, law enforcement supporters, neighborhood leaders, relatives, and members of Save the People USA (STPUSA) gathered to honor Islam’s legacy and the impact he left on the city.
Islam was killed the previous July during a shooting inside the lobby of an office building on Park Avenue in Manhattan. According to the account shared by organizers, he was working an additional security shift when he confronted the danger and was struck by the gunman’s first shots. Four people died in the attack, including Islam. His presence and response were remembered as actions that helped protect others inside the building.
His death reached a family awaiting a new child. Islam’s wife was pregnant at the time, and their third child was born weeks later. The street sign now stands as a public record of a father the youngest child never met, and as a message from the city that his service will not be forgotten.
Islam came to New York from Bangladesh at age 20. He first worked as a school safety agent before joining the New York City Police Department. During more than three years at the 47th Precinct, he became known within the Parkchester community as both an officer and a trusted neighbor. He was promoted posthumously to Detective First Grade.
The dedication was supported through the efforts of Council Member Amanda Farías, along with members of the Bangladeshi community, the Bangladeshi American Police Association, fellow officers, neighbors, and Islam’s family.
Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, CEO of Save the People USA (STPUSA), attended with members of his organization. “Today, our community came together to remember a true hero whose courage, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he said. “May his memory continue to inspire generations to come.”
The new street sign places Islam’s name into the daily life of the Bronx. Residents will pass beneath it on their way to school, work, worship, and home, carrying forward the memory of an officer whose story now belongs to the city’s map and history.
Residents and community leaders gather in tribute
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