Trump to attend wake of NYPD officer killed by career criminal during traffic stop

Donald Trump is expected to attend the wake for Jonathan Diller, the New York City police officer who was shot dead by a career criminal while carrying out a routine traffic stop in Queens on Monday night.

The gathering is scheduled to take place on Thursday from 2-4 pm in Massapequa.

According to NBC News, the former president had been asked to make an appearance at the wake, with campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt noting that he was "moved by the invitation to join" Diller's family and his fellow officers "as they deal with his senseless and tragic death."

On Wednesday, hundreds of NYPD officers lined the streets as Diller was transported to the funeral home behind a procession of cruisers and motorcycles.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre offered her condolences to Diller's family on behalf of the Biden administration, though the president is not expected to attend the wake.

"Our hearts go out to this officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty," she said. "We're also praying for his family during this difficult time."

Jean Pierre went on to point out that the shooting was "yet another painful reminder of the toll of gun violence."

The incident took place shortly before 6 pm on Monday outside 1919 Mott Avenue in Far Rockaway. After noticing that a vehicle was parked illegally, Diller and his partner approached to talk with the driver. Guns were flashed, and a shootout ensued.

Diller was struck in the stomach beneath his bulletproof vest, while the suspect was struck by a bullet fired by the other officer. While the suspect and Diller were both rushed to hospital, the latter survived while the former was soon pronounced dead.

The 34-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been released, was revealed to have had 21 prior arrests, and had spent time in prison for both first-degree assault and criminal possession of a controlled substance.