The family of a slain New York City police detective spoke out for the first time on Tuesday, after Detective Didarul Islam was killed during last week’s mass shooting in Midtown.

Islam’s loved ones, including his parents, siblings and his two young sons, expressed gratitude for the kindness and prayers they have received.

They thanked the NYPD and elected leaders for the support.  

Islam was one of four people gunned down when a 27-year-old gunman travelled across the country and opened fire on Park Avenue in Manhattan.

The 36-year-old detective was an immigrant from Bangladesh.  

His family said he called the United States his second home, where he was supported his two boys and his wife, who is expecting with their third child next week. 

Islam’s father, Mohammed Abdur Rob, said not a moment goes by that he doesn’t think about his only son, who he wanted to succeed and be respected. 

“Without him here, I feel emptiness,” the father said. “I don’t know who I am right now. When I went and first saw his body, I had a mini stroke. After that, I've been lost ever since. I’m extremely proud of the sacrifice that my son has made. He didn’t hurt anyone; he protected the people around him.”