Former President Donald Trump intends to be present at the wake of Jonathan Diller, a New York Police Department officer who tragically lost his life during a traffic stop.
A spokesperson from the NYPD has confirmed the reports regarding Trump's intention to attend the wake on Thursday at the Massapequa Funeral Home in New York.
Trump has consistently shown support for the NYPD and police officers, going as far as endorsing the death penalty for criminals convicted of killing law enforcement officials.
"President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller's family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death," Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told The Associated Press.
Trump posted a tribute to Diller Tuesday on his social media site.
"To Officer Diller's family, and all of the other brave men and women of law enforcement who put your lives on the line every day, we love you, we appreciate you, and we will always stand with you!" Trump wrote.
A tragic incident occurred involving Jonathan Diller, a three-year veteran of the NYPD. The incident took place when Diller and another individual were stopped for illegally parking at a bus stop. A wife and infant son are left behind.
Diller lost his life in a shooting incident involving a suspect named Guy Rivera. He and another officer approached the vehicle, instructing Rivera and another man to exit.
According to sources, Rivera declined, resulting in a commotion when the fellow passenger opened the door as instructed by the officer. Rivera proceeded to discharge his firearm, resulting in Diller being hit in the torso, right below his protective vest.
Diller transported to the hospital in a critical state and unfortunately passed away. Rivera has a lengthy record with 21 prior arrests, nine of which are felonies.
The White House addressed the passing of Diller during the regular press briefing on Wednesday, in response to inquiries from journalists.
"Our hearts go out to this officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty," stated press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. She emphasized that Diller's passing served as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence.
Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, expressed his deep sorrow over Diller's shooting, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
He stated, "These are bad people doing bad things to good people. It's the good guys against the bad guys."
Recent crime statistics indicate a significant decrease in violent crime across many regions of the country. According to recent data released by the FBI, there was an 11 percent decrease in crime rates in cities with populations exceeding one million last year.
