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An NYPD officer has been killed after being shot on a routine traffic stop in Queens, New York. This marks the city’s first police officer death in the line of duty in two years.

According to authorities, the situation occurred when Officer Jonathan Diller and his partner investigated a vehicle parked illegally at a bus stop on Mott Avenue and Beach 19th Street. Upon their approach, a passenger exited the vehicle and discharged a firearm, striking Officer Diller under his bulletproof vest. In response, Diller’s partner fired back, wounding the shooter. According to police, charges are pending against a 34-year-old unidentified man involved in the incident. Despite being shot in the back during the encounter, the suspect is anticipated to make a recovery.

Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident, saying, “It was because of a senseless act of violence…a person had a total disregard for the safety of this city.” He added, “This dangerous individual inflicted a level of violence that took the life of a police officer, of a husband, a son. This is a loved one that we lost, a young man. My heart goes out to his family …We lost one of our sons today, and it is extremely painful.” NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban said, “There will be plenty of time for anger, grief and for processing pain. But right now, our thoughts are with our fellow officers family, his fellow cops, and every member of the New York Police Department. But most of all, they’re with the officer himself.”

Throughout his service, Officer Diller was recognized four times for his contributions to the NYPD. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards commended Diller’s bravery: “It takes unimaginable courage to protect and serve New York City, knowing there’s a chance you might not make it home to your family at the end of the day. NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller was the personification of that courage, and his heroism in making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of public safety will never be forgotten.”