In the aftermath of the mass shooting that claimed the lives of NYPD Officer Didaral Islam and three civilians inside a New York City office building on July 28th, the 69th Precinct Clergy Council convened at the 69th Precinct, located at 9720 Foster Avenue, on July 30th, in a show of support and to offer special prayers for the officers at their 7 a.m. Roll Call.
Reverend Cecil Moonsam, president of the 69th Precinct Clergy Council and also an auxiliary lieutenant, stated to the Canarsie Courier, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our police officers and the others whose lives were senselessly taken.” Moonsam, a staunch anti-gun violence advocate added, “We must pray and encourage our officers at this difficult time. We must stand up against every evil and wicked activity that would cause harm and danger to our families and our communities.”
Since its inception over a decade ago, the 69th Precinct Clergy Council has addressed issues of gun violence in the community by holding monthly prayer vigils at hot spots and providing counselling and other support for families impacted by gun violence.
Islam was assigned to the 47th Precinct in the Bronx and was on a security detail at 345 Park Avenue where the massacre unfolded. He was also a beloved member of the Bangladeshi American Police Association (BAPA), who mourned his loss openly. “During this unimaginably painful time, we stand together in prayer for his family and loved ones,” BAPA shared in a statement. “We will forever honor his legacy and remember his selfless service.”
Canarsie resident Aland Etienne, a security officer, was also slain, along with Wesley LePatner, an investment firm executive, and Julia Hyman, a Rudin staffer. The lone gunman squeezed off 47 rounds from an M4 rifle, which also severely wounded a fifth victim who is hospitalized in critical but stable condition. The shooter died from a self-inflicted wound to his torso, from one of those shots.
Moonsam called on every pastor, chaplain and leadership of every church, temple, mosque and synagogue to stand together and denounce such violent acts.
