The Cuomo administration lawyer, Carey W. Gabay, who was shot in the head during Jouvert last week died Wednesday evening, according to a family spokesperson.
Gabay, a Jamaican American raised in public housing in the Bronx, was a bystander in the midst of a shootout in Crown Heights during the pre-dawn celebration. Police believe the exchange of gunfire is linked to gang activity.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said in a statement: “It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of Carey Gabay. Carey was the epitome of an outstanding public servant. 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.”
“We ask that our privacy be respected during this difficult time,” Gabay’s family said in a statement.
Gabay, a 43-year-old lawyer who was appointed first deputy counsel for Empire State Development – New York’s chief economic development agency – in January, is no stranger to celebrating his Jamaican heritage at Jouvert.
While walking home with his younger brother and several friends around 3:40 am on Sept. 7, gunfire erupted near the corner of Bedford Avenue and Sullivan Place. Gabay was struck by a bullet in the top of his head as he ducked behind a car.
He was taken to Kings County Hospital where he remained in critical condition in a coma. He was pronounced brain-dead on Tuesday night and subsequently taken off a respirator.
The Gabay family is seeking the public’s help and is asking anyone with information about what happened to contact the authorities. The investigation is ongoing.
“Many have come to know Carey through professional life, but he is also a kindhearted and selfless soul who has touched the spirit of everyone he’s met,” the family’s statement said.
