Assemblymember Raga Joins Candlelight Vigil Honoring NYPD Detective Didarul Islam

Jackson Heights, NY — The Bangladeshi American community came together in a heartfelt display of unity and mourning during a candlelight vigil for fallen NYPD Detective Didarul Islam, held Sunday evening in Jackson Heights.

The vigil, hosted by the Bangladesh Society, drew community members, law enforcement officers, and local leaders who gathered to honor the life and sacrifice of Detective Islam, who was killed in the line of duty on July 28 during a mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan.

Assemblymember Steven Raga, representing New York’s 30th Assembly District, expressed his gratitude to the organizers and emphasized the importance of solidarity during this time of grief.

“Thanks to the Bangladesh Society for hosting the Candlelight Community Vigil in Jackson Heights for NYPD Detective Didarul Islam 🙏. It is a painful time for our Bangladeshi community, so it was important to come together with Detective Islam’s family, his fellow officers, Captain Karam Chowdhury of the NYPD 104th Precinct, and community,” Raga said.

Detective Islam, a father of two with a third child on the way, was remembered as a devoted officer, family man, and proud Bangladeshi American. His death has deeply shaken the NYPD and the city’s Bangladeshi community, many of whom saw him as a trailblazer and role model.

Captain Karam Chowdhury, a fellow Bangladeshi American officer with the NYPD, joined other members of law enforcement in paying tribute to Islam’s bravery and selflessness. Community leaders spoke of his dedication, not only to his work but also to bridging connections between the NYPD and immigrant communities.

The vigil featured prayers, candle lighting, and moments of silence as attendees reflected on Islam’s service and sacrifice. Organizers stressed the need for continued support for his grieving family and for efforts to uplift the Bangladeshi community in times of tragedy.

Detective Islam was posthumously promoted to Detective First Grade by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch at his funeral, where thousands of mourners attended to honor his memory. His story has since become a symbol of resilience and the vital contributions of immigrant communities to New York City’s safety and strength.