Former Cuomo lawyer dies after being caught in NYC shooting crossfire
A 43-year-old lawyer for a New York state economic development agency who formerly worked for the governor and Jones Day has died from a gunshot wound to the head.
An apparent unintended victim in what may have been a gang shootout in Brooklyn last week, Carey Gabay died Wednesday, after being declared brain-dead and taken off a respirator, a family friend told the New York Times (reg. req.).
The Harvard Law School graduate “was the epitome of an outstanding public servant,” said Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a written statement. “He held a tremendous commitment to his community, and he chose to use his many talents to better the lives of others. New York is undeniably a better place today because of his service.”
Gabay’s family requested privacy but asked for public cooperation with police efforts to identify the person or persons responsible for the shooting, “a nightmare that’s shaken our resolve and tested our faith.”
It occurred during a predawn celebration in Crown Heights of the West Indian holiday of J’ouvert, prior to the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn. Police said Gabay was caught in the crossfire of as many as 30 bullets fired by up to three individuals.
A $12,500 reward is being offered for information leading to an indictment.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Lawyer for New York state is shot in head; he previously worked as a BigLaw associate”
ABAJournal.com: “Police release sketch of man wanted for questioning in lawyer’s shooting”
