Thursday, October 1, 2026
Almost two years after NYPD officer Jonathan Diller was killed during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway, the case has finally reached a turning point as the jury is now deliberating at Queens Criminal Court in Kew Gardens.
Diller, a native of Franklin Square who later lived in Massapequa Park, was survived by his wife, Stephanie, and their toddler son Ryan.
Diller was killed during a March 25, 2024 traffic stop, when authorities said that Guy Rivera, 34, opened fire from the passenger seat of a vehicle driven by Lindy Jones, 41, after the driver allegedly refused to roll down the windows.
Rivera faced charges of first-degree murder and first-degree attempted murder for allegedly attempting to shoot an NYPD sergeant at the scene. Police officials reported he had at least 21 prior arrests. Both Rivera and Jones were also charged with criminal possession of a weapon after a second firearm was recovered from the car.
A city police officer for three years, Diller had received several honors. Fellow officers at the 105th Precinct in Queens called him a "cop's cop." He was pronmoted posthumously to the rank of detective first grade.
Former neighbors and coaches described Diller as a person who loved sports. He led the lacrosse team at St. Mary’s High School, in Manhasset, to a state championship in 2010.
His wake was attended by Donald Trump before he was elected for a second term in November 2024.
