Mercer Times

A state grand jury has decided not to pursue criminal charges in the case involving the death of Raul L. Diaz, a cyclist from Long Valley, New Jersey. The incident occurred on February 5, 2024, in Hackettstown and involved Sergeant First Class Kesene Grier of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). The investigation was carried out by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) and presented to a grand jury as per the Independent Prosecutor Directive of 2019.

The investigation reviewed various pieces of evidence including surveillance footage, body-worn camera video, radio transmissions, a crash report, photographs, and autopsy results. After examining this evidence, the grand jury concluded its deliberations on February 24, 2025, with a "no bill" decision indicating no criminal charges against Sergeant Grier.

The collision took place before sunrise at an intersection in Hackettstown. Sergeant Grier was driving an unmarked NJSP SUV when she collided with Mr. Diaz who was riding an electric bike. Mr. Diaz applied heavy front brakes causing his e-bike to overturn and collide with the NJSP vehicle.

Sergeant Grier remained at the scene and reported the incident while attending to Mr. Diaz until additional officers and emergency personnel arrived. Mr. Diaz was taken to Hackettstown Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 7:17 a.m.

Footage from surveillance cameras and police radio transmissions related to this accident have been released online for public viewing.

Under N.J.S.A. 52:17B-107(a)(2), any death occurring during an encounter with law enforcement must be investigated by the Attorney General’s Office and presented to a grand jury for possible indictment decisions. The grand jury is informed about potential criminal offenses including homicide and self-defense justifications.

No conflicts of interest were found among those assigned to this investigation according to a check conducted under the Independent Prosecutor Directive. OPIA Executive Director Drew Skinner reviewed the investigation prior to its presentation following established procedures.

Upon concluding investigations like these, OPIA decides if any principal should be referred for administrative review by relevant law enforcement agencies based on AG’s Internal Affairs Policy & Procedures. OPIA oversees such reviews ensuring timely completion and appropriate actions based on outcomes.