The man accused of fatally shooting NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller during a traffic stop in Queens in March 2024 has been convicted of manslaughter, but acquitted of the more serious charge of first-degree murder. Guy Rivera was found guilty Wednesday of aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, attempted murder in the first degree for attempting to shoot a responding NYPD sergeant, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree.

Initial Split Verdict and Continued Deliberation

The jury initially informed the court they had reached a verdict, but were sent back for further deliberations after a juror indicated the decision was not unanimous. The jury foreman stated they had reached a not-guilty verdict on the first-degree murder charge and found Rivera guilty on the remaining charges. However, during polling of the jurors, one juror, identified as No. 5, disagreed with the verdict.

Judge's Instructions

Judge Michael Aloise instructed the jury to continue deliberating, stating, “As I told you jurors, your verdict must be unanimous. Please go back in and deliberate.” The jury sent several notes to the judge, including inquiries about the deliberation timeframe and a request from a juror needing to reschedule an appointment. The judge responded by allowing them to continue deliberating without a time limit.

Details of the Shooting

Authorities stated that Detective Diller and Sergeant Sasha Rosen stopped a vehicle illegally parked outside a cell phone store in Far Rockaway. Prosecutors argued that Rivera shot and killed Diller after being asked to exit the vehicle. Following the shooting of Diller, Rivera allegedly aimed his gun at Sergeant Rosen’s chest and pulled the trigger, but the weapon malfunctioned.

Detective Diller managed to wrestle the gun away from Rivera before succumbing to his injuries. Rivera himself sustained two gunshot wounds during the encounter. It was noted that Diller was scheduled to be off duty on the day of the shooting, having been called in while with his family.

Statements from Officials

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz stated, “The last words Detective Jonathan Diller told his wife were ‘I love you.’” She further emphasized Diller’s roles as a father, husband, son, and dedicated member of the NYPD.

“This crime stole the life of a dutiful officer and a family man and endangered the life of a devoted NYPD sergeant,” Katz added. She affirmed continued support for Diller’s family, Sergeant Rosen, and all members of the New York City Police Department.