JCRC-NY Condemns Senseless Murders in Midtown, Mourns the Loss of Fellow New Yorkers

NEW YORK, NY (07/29/2025) (readMedia)-- Statement from JCRC-NY CEO Mark Treyger:

JCRC-NY is heartbroken by the devastating mass shooting that took place yesterday in Midtown Manhattan, claiming the lives of NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, a Bangladeshi immigrant serving our city who acted with extraordinary bravery, and three civilians. Among them was Wesley LePatner, a beloved board member of our partner organization, UJA-Federation of New York, who leaves behind a legacy of leadership in the Jewish community. Her loss is profoundly felt by all who were touched by her dedication and service. Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those who were senselessly murdered, the injured, and everyone shaken by this heinous act in the heart of our city.

Violence of any kind tears at the fabric of New York. We strongly condemn this horrific act and express our profound gratitude to law enforcement and first responders for their swift action and courage. We also extend our condolences to the entire New York City Police Department. This horrific attack underscores the dangers the NYPD confronts and the heroic sacrifices they make on behalf of the safety of all New Yorkers. JCRC-NY has been in touch with Community Security Initiative leadership, a joint security initiative with UJA-Federation of NY, to maintain vigilance during this serious time. We remain committed to working with our community partners and elected leaders to build a safer, more inclusive and just city for all New Yorkers.

Thank you to Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch for their steadfast leadership in the face of this tragedy, and to our elected officials for stepping up during this painful moment.

May the memories of those we've lost be a blessing.

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About JCRC-NY: JCRC-NY, a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York, serves as the primary community relations agency for the Jewish community in the metropolitan New York area. As an active force in New York civic and communal life, JCRC-NY operates as a central coordinating and resource body with a mission to build relationships to advance the values, interests, and security of the Jewish community and to create a more interconnected New York for all.