The New York Mets paid tribute to slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller by holding a moment of silence before their home opener at Citi Field in Queens. Both Mets and Brewers players stood on the baselines as Diller’s name and face were displayed on the jumbotron. The gesture was to honor the fallen officer for his bravery and sacrifice in keeping the city safe. Diller, a 31-year-old father, was fatally shot during a traffic stop in Queens on Monday, prompting the Mets to show their support.
The touching tribute for Officer Diller took place amid the wake services being held for him in Long Island. The NYPD expressed its gratitude to the Mets for the memorial, acknowledging their support for the fallen officer and his family. The department thanked the Mets for their tribute and expressed appreciation for the Mets’ show of support at the Opening Day ceremony at Citi Field. As New York City continues to mourn the loss of Officer Diller, the Mets were wished a successful season in 2024.
The Mets’ originally scheduled home opener on Thursday was postponed due to rain, with the tribute to Officer Diller taking place on the second day of his wake services. Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere, the Mets ultimately lost the game 3-1 to the Brewers. Officer Diller was shot during a patrol when he and his partner approached a vehicle parked in front of a bus stop, leading to an altercation with career criminal Guy Rivera. Rivera, who was also wounded in the exchange, was charged with murder and gun possession and is being held without bail.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul attended Officer Diller’s wake in Long Island, with the solemn occasion marked by a tension-filled confrontation. Former President Donald Trump paid his respects to the fallen officer, while President Biden and former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama were among the attendees at a fancy fundraiser in Midtown Manhattan. The event was meant to honor Officer Diller’s memory and legacy. The tributes and acknowledgments of Diller’s service and sacrifice have brought the community and the city together in mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant.
