Far Rockaway, Queens – A tragic incident unfolded in Far Rockaway, Queens, where a 31-year-old NYPD Officer, Jonathan Diller, was fatally shot during a routine traffic stop. The suspects involved in this heinous crime have been identified as 34-year-old Guy Rivera and 41-year-old Lindy Jones. Rivera, the suspected shooter, has a history of at least four prior arrests, while Jones, the driver of the vehicle, has been arrested at least 12 times, with his latest arrest in April 2023 for possessing a loaded firearm.
City officials, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, expressed dismay at the alarming trend of repeat offenders like Rivera being released back onto the streets to commit further crimes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with recidivist offenders who pose a threat to public safety.
NYPD officials detailed the events leading up to Officer Diller’s tragic death, explaining that he and another officer were conducting a traffic stop when they encountered a vehicle parked illegally at a bus stop. When asked to exit the vehicle, Rivera, seated in the passenger’s seat, brandished a gun and refused to comply, leading to a fatal altercation.
Officer Diller, a dedicated three-year veteran of the NYPD with over 70 arrests to his name, was struck below his bullet-resistant vest during the confrontation. Despite efforts to save his life, he was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. His partner fired at Rivera, the suspect, hitting him in the back. Rivera, who also sustained gunshot wounds, is expected to survive.
The heartbreaking loss of Officer Diller marks the first on-duty death of an NYPD officer since early 2022. His untimely demise underscores the risks that law enforcement officers face daily while serving and protecting their communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Diller’s family, including his wife and young child, during this difficult time.