On July 28, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred at a New York City office tower located at 345 Park Avenue, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including an off-duty New York City police officer, Didarul Islam, aged 36. The gunman has been identified as Shane Tamura from Las Vegas, who ultimately took his own life. Tamura had a documented mental health history, but the motive behind the attack remains unclear.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated at a press conference that Officer Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh who served as an NYPD officer for three and a half years, was performing his duties when he was fatally shot. "He made the ultimate sacrifice," she remarked, describing him as a hero who "died as he lived."
According to police officials, the incident began around 6:30 p.m. when Tamura, armed with an M4 rifle, exited a double-parked BMW and immediately opened fire as he entered the office building. He shot Officer Islam first, followed by a woman seeking cover, and continued to spray the lobby with gunfire. In total, Tamura targeted various individuals throughout the building, seriously injuring one man, and shooting a security guard before making his way to the 33rd floor where he killed another person at a real estate management company.
After the shooting spree, Tamura retreated to a hallway where he subsequently took his own life. In his vehicle, police discovered a rifle case, a revolver, magazines, and ammunition. Investigators have traced Tamura's vehicle as having traveled across several states, including Colorado, Nebraska, and Iowa before entering New York City shortly before the incident.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene following reports of shots fired, leading to chaos within the building as employees attempted to flee for safety. Witnesses recounted the fear and panic, with many barricading themselves in conference rooms while others evacuated with their hands raised. Mayor Eric Adams noted that one individual remains in critical condition, while four others suffered minor injuries during the evacuation.
Police believe that at least two officers were stationed in the building as part of an NYPD program that allows companies to hire officers for security duties. The shooting occurred in a bustling area of Midtown Manhattan, not far from iconic locations such as Grand Central Terminal and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
In a broader context, New York City has been experiencing a decline in violent crime, with reports suggesting the city might end the year with the fewest murders and instances of gun violence in recent decades. However, this tragic event highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence and mental health issues within society.
Officer Islam is survived by his wife, who is pregnant with their third child, and their two young boys. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of lives and reflects on the implications of such acts of violence.
