The family of Akai Gurley will receive a $4.1 million settlement from the city, according to reports.
Along with money from the city, Gurley’s family will also receive $400,000 form the New York City Housing Authority and another $25,000 from Peter Liang, the former NYPD officer who shot Gurley.
“I’m just glad it’s done,” said Kimberly Ballinger, Gurley’s domestic partner at a press conference. “I’m glad we got a conviction. I’m glad my daughter will be taken care of. I’m glad it’s done, and hopefully I can move on with my life.”
In November 2014, Gurley was fatally shot by Liang in the Pink Houses in East New York, Brooklyn. Liang and his partner were conducting a vertical patrol; Liang had his weapon drawn. As Gurley and his girlfriend, one floor below, and Liang entered a darkened stairwell at the same time, Liang fired his weapon, killing Gurley. The shooting was deemed an accident.
Liang was charged with second-degree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and two counts of official misconduct. He was found guilty of manslaughter and official misconduct. Liang was sentenced to five years of probation and 800 hours community service.
