The New York Islanders will dedicate proceeds from Saturday’s 50/50 drawing to the family of murdered NYPD detective Jonathan Diller, who was a superfan of the Long Island-based team.
The hockey team announced its profit at the start of Tuesday night’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks, following a moment of silence for the 31-year-old police officer, who was shot and killed last week during a traffic stop in routine in Far Rockaway, Queens.
The scholarship will benefit Diller’s widow, Stephanie, and the couple’s 1-year-old son, Ryan.
“Tonight, the #Isles observed a moment of silence and lit the blue lanterns at UBS Arena in honor of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on March 25,” the Isles announced on social media.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones.”
Diller, a Massapuequa native, was a passionate Islanders fan – with the priest presiding over his funeral imploring mourners to “pray for the Islands.”
That night, the team projected a statement on the jumbotron dedicated to the fallen cop.
“MSG Networks and the New York Islanders organization extend our condolences to the family, friends and fellow law enforcement officers of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller. Stephanie and Ryan, you are in our thoughts during this difficult time,” the team said Saturday.
The 50/50 drawing honoring Diller will take place during the Isles’ game against the Nashville Predators on their home field at UBS Arena in Elmont.
The team holds 50/50 raffles at almost every game, whether home or away, to benefit charities ranging from Tunnel to Towers to the Alzheimer’s Association.
The biggest prize of the season so far, an October purse of $84,800.
Diller, a three-year veteran of the department, was killed when he approached two men in a car parked at a bus stop — both career criminals with dozens of prior arrests, according to the NYPD and sources.
Passenger Guy Rivera, 34, shot the officer just below his bulletproof vest during an ensuing struggle, officers and sources said.
Rivera has already been arrested 21 times and was found to have a surin stored in his rectum during the shooting – in apparent anticipation of being sent to prison again.
Lindy Jones, the ex-con who drove the car during the shooting, was also arrested after a second gun was found in his car.
New York Police Commissioner Edward Caban posthumously promoted Diller to detective status at his funeral Saturday, with the number 110 badge in a nod to little Ryan’s birthday.
New York Post
