NFL Commissioner Honors Fallen NYPD Detective’s Legacy with Educational Support for His Children
In a heartfelt ceremony at the 47th Precinct in New York City, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell presented educational scholarships to the three young children of Detective Didarul Islam, who was tragically killed during a mass shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Manhattan this past July. The 36-year-old NYPD detective was working security at the skyscraper that houses NFL headquarters when he encountered gunman Shane Tamura. “Detective Islam was a hero to us,” Goodell said during Tuesday’s ceremony. “He was somebody that we all knew as a friend, as a neighbor. And it’s an honor to be here with his family that I know meant so much to him.” The commissioner emphasized the selfless nature of first responders like Islam, noting, “This is what true first responders and true heroes do. They run to the fire, they run to the emergency. They run to help. With no questions asked.”
The scholarships, provided through Folds of Honor—a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families of fallen officers—will cover educational expenses for Islam’s three sons: Azhaan, 5, Ahyan, 7, and newborn Arham. This financial support represents more than just monetary assistance; it embodies a commitment to honoring Detective Islam’s own values and aspirations for his children’s futures. Police Officer Kamrul Husan, Islam’s brother-in-law who attended the ceremony, expressed how much the scholarships mean to their grieving family. “Islam’s family is going through a lot,” Husan shared, visibly moved by the support shown to them. He explained that education had always been a priority for Islam, who constantly thought about how he would provide quality schooling for his boys. “Now the NFL stood up for the kids, that means a lot to the family. Now the family doesn’t have to worry about that, his kids education. This is great, this is really appreciated.”
The ceremony provided a touching moment when young Azhaan spoke with reporters afterward, sharing his aspirations to follow in his father’s footsteps. “I want to be a police officer. And when I grow up and I’m a police officer, I can’t wait to be a detective,” the five-year-old declared with innocent determination. When asked how much he loved his dad, Azhaan replied without hesitation, “One hundred percent.” These simple yet profound words from such a young child highlighted the immense void left in these children’s lives while showcasing the lasting impact of Detective Islam’s character and service on his family. Detective Islam, a Bangladeshi immigrant who made the Bronx his home, had served with the NYPD for four years before his life was cut short in an act of senseless violence.
The tragic events of July 28 unfolded rapidly when Tamura arrived at the Park Avenue building armed with an M4 rifle. After exiting his BMW between 51st and 52nd streets, he entered the lobby where he immediately encountered and fatally shot Detective Islam. The gunman continued his rampage through the building, killing security guard Aland Etienne, 43-year-old Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner, and Rudin Management employee Julia Hyman before taking his own life. One additional person was critically injured during the attack. Investigations later revealed that Tamura had specifically intended to target the NFL headquarters in his deadly assault, making Detective Islam’s presence and sacrifice all the more significant to the NFL community. The violence lasted for an undetermined amount of time before Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced at 7:52 p.m. that “the scene has been contained and the lone shooter has been neutralized.”
The scholarship presentation ceremony represents just one way the community has rallied to honor those who responded to this tragedy. Just one day prior to the scholarship announcement, the NYPD recognized 194 officers for their exemplary response during the Park Avenue shooting, awarding them for “meritorious” or “excellent” police work. This recognition, alongside the educational support for Islam’s children, demonstrates a commitment to remembering not just the tragedy itself, but the heroism and sacrifice that emerged from it. For the Islam family, these scholarships provide some measure of security amid overwhelming loss—ensuring that while these three boys will grow up without their father’s physical presence, his dreams for their education and future will still be realized.
The aftermath of Detective Islam’s death highlights the profound impacts of violence on families and communities, while also showcasing how organizations like the NFL and Folds of Honor can step forward to provide meaningful support to those left behind. As Commissioner Goodell stood with the Islam family that day, the moment transcended sports and business interests—it became about honoring a fallen protector who had given his life in service to others. For Azhaan, Ahyan, and baby Arham, these scholarships represent more than financial assistance; they’re a testament to their father’s legacy and a reminder that his sacrifice has not been forgotten by those whose safety he once protected. As they grow, these children will carry forward not just memories of their father, but tangible support from a community that recognized his heroism and stepped up to help fulfill his dreams for their future.
