NYPD Officer's Killer Convicted of Manslaughter, Not Murder

Jury initially split, later unanimously convicts man of manslaughter and other charges in 2024 shooting death of Detective Jonathan Diller

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:03am

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Guy Rivera was found guilty of manslaughter, attempted murder, and weapons charges, but acquitted of first-degree murder, in the 2024 shooting death of NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller during a traffic stop in Queens. The jury initially reported a split verdict before being sent back to deliberate further, ultimately reaching the final conviction.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities of policing and use of force, with the jury struggling to reach a unanimous verdict on the most serious murder charge. It also underscores the risks and dangers faced by officers in the line of duty, as well as the impact on their families when tragedy strikes.

The details

Authorities said Detective Diller and Sergeant Sasha Rosen stopped a vehicle illegally parked outside a cell phone store in Far Rockaway in March 2024. Prosecutors said Rivera then shot and killed Diller after being ordered to step out of the vehicle. After shooting Diller, Rivera pointed his gun at Rosen's chest and pulled the trigger, but the gun jammed. Diller wrestled the gun away from Rivera before collapsing from his injuries. Rivera was also shot twice during the encounter.

  • In March 2024, Diller and Rosen stopped Rivera's illegally parked vehicle.
  • On Wednesday, the jury initially reported a split verdict before being sent back to deliberate further.
  • Later on Wednesday, the jury reached a final conviction on the manslaughter and other charges.

The players

Guy Rivera

The man charged with killing NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller during a 2024 traffic stop in Queens.

Jonathan Diller

An NYPD detective who was fatally shot during a 2024 traffic stop in Queens.

Sasha Rosen

An NYPD sergeant who responded to the scene and was nearly shot by Rivera after Diller was killed.

Melinda Katz

The Queens District Attorney who issued a statement on the case.

Michael Aloise

The judge presiding over the trial.

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What they’re saying

“The last words Detective Jonathan Diller told his wife were 'I love you.' Detective Diller was a father, a husband and a son. He was also a dedicated member of the New York City Police Department who put on a uniform every day to protect our city.”

— Melinda Katz, Queens District Attorney

“This crime stole the life of a dutiful officer and a family man and endangered the life of a devoted NYPD sergeant. We continue to stand in solidarity with Detective Diller's loved ones, Sergeant Sasha Rosen and all the brave men and women who protect our city.”

— Melinda Katz, Queens District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will formally sentence Rivera on the manslaughter and other charges at a later date.

The takeaway

This case highlights the difficult decisions and split-second judgments police officers must make, as well as the tragic consequences when those encounters go wrong. It also underscores the need for continued dialogue and reforms around use of force policies to protect both officers and the public.