Former President Donald Trump attended the wake of slain NYPD officer Jonathan Diller on Thursday afternoon at a Massapequa Park funeral home, while emphasizing the need for law and order in the community.
Officer Diller, 31, tragically lost his life during a traffic stop in Queens when a man with a history of 21 prior arrests shot him in the stomach. The incident occurred as Diller and his partner approached a vehicle illegally parked at a bus stop, leading to a fatal confrontation.
Expressing his condolences, Trump stated, 'Such a sad, sad event. Such a horrible thing. And it's happening all too often and we're just not going to let it happen. We need law and order.'
Trump's presence at the wake was announced by his campaign, with the former president acknowledging the devastating impact of Diller's death on his family and colleagues. Mayor Eric Adams was also expected to attend the wake following Trump's visit.
In response to the tragic incident, Trump criticized the current administration, attributing rising crime rates to what he referred to as the 'radical lunatic left' hindering law enforcement efforts. He highlighted the importance of respecting authority and ensuring the safety of communities.
The suspect, Guy Rivera, who allegedly shot Officer Diller, has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and criminal possession of a weapon. Another individual in the vehicle at the time of the shooting, Lindy Jones, also faces charges related to the possession and defacement of a weapon.
Reflecting on the impact of the loss, Trump expressed his sympathy for Diller's wife and young son, emphasizing the need to prevent such senseless tragedies from reoccurring.
While Trump and others paid their respects at the wake, criticism was directed at President Biden for his absence, as he was reportedly attending a fundraiser with former Presidents Obama and Clinton during the somber event.
Trump's call for law and order, coupled with his condemnation of escalating crime rates, underscores the ongoing debate surrounding public safety and the role of law enforcement in maintaining community security.
