NYPD Cop Recounts Shooting Death of 'Best Friend' Hero Officer

Veckash Khedna breaks down in tears as he testifies against accused cop killer Guy Rivera

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:06pm

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NYPD officer Veckash Khedna testified through tears about the 2024 shooting death of his "best friend," hero cop Jonathan Diller, who was killed by accused gunman Guy Rivera. Khedna recounted the traffic stop that turned tragic, saying he saw Rivera with a gun and opened fire to protect another officer after Diller was mortally wounded.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers NYPD officers face on the job and the devastating impact the loss of a colleague can have, especially when it involves a respected "hero cop" like Diller. It also raises questions about repeat offenders and the challenges of keeping dangerous criminals off the streets.

The details

According to Khedna's testimony, he and Diller were investigating a suspicious vehicle when Rivera, who had a gun in his pocket, suddenly pulled it out and shot Diller. Khedna then returned fire, hitting Rivera, to protect another officer, Sasha Rosen, who Rivera had pointed the gun at. Diller was rushed to the hospital but did not survive.

  • The incident occurred in March 2024.
  • Diller's widow Stephanie recalled their last conversation on March 25, 2024, the day he was killed.
  • The trial of accused killer Guy Rivera is currently underway in Queens Supreme Court.

The players

Veckash Khedna

An NYPD officer who joined the force in 2019 and was later promoted to detective. He was Diller's partner and best friend.

Jonathan Diller

A 31-year-old NYPD officer who was killed in the line of duty in 2024. He was promoted to detective posthumously.

Guy Rivera

The 35-year-old career criminal accused of killing Diller. He had 21 prior arrests before the shooting.

Sasha Rosen

An NYPD sergeant who was also on the scene and had a gun pointed at him by Rivera.

Stephanie Diller

The widow of Jonathan Diller, who has attended the trial of her husband's accused killer every day.

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What they’re saying

“I saw Diller laying on the floor … He's not responding. I'm thinking he's dead. I started crying. One of my best friends is dead.”

— Veckash Khedna, NYPD Officer

“[Rivera] had the gun in his right hand, pointing it into Sergeant Rosen's chest. I discharged my weapon and he continued to get out of the car… I had my gun up and took a second shot at the defendant's arm and wasn't sure I hit him but he immediately started falling.”

— Veckash Khedna, NYPD Officer

“He said, 'I love you.' 'I'll see you soon.'”

— Stephanie Diller

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Guy Rivera out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the dangers NYPD officers face and the devastating impact the loss of a respected 'hero cop' can have on the community. It also raises broader questions about repeat offenders, bail reform, and public safety in New York City.