Trial of 4 accused in death of Cuomo aide Gabay begins

<p>The trial of four men accused in the death of Carey Gabay, a former aide to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, began Monday with the prosecution arguing it will introduce a slew of evidence that the group's violent actions led to the bystander's death.</p>

News 12 Staff

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Apr 30, 2018, 4:59 PM

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Updated 2,186 days ago

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The trial of four men accused in the death of Carey Gabay, a former aide to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, began Monday with the prosecution arguing it will introduce a slew of evidence that the group's violent actions led to the bystander's death.

Prosecutors say a fifth suspect has admitted his involvement, agreed to a plea deal and will testify against the four defendants.

Gabay was an innocent bystander on Sept. 7, 2015, when the suspects allegedly exchanged gunfire with a rival group and a stray bullet struck him in the head in the crossfire.

Prosecutors described the gunfight as a "full-on gang war" on Bedford Avenue hours before a planned celebration in the area.

They say each of the men accused is responsible because they created a "zone of violence" when they began shooting.

Gabay died a week later.

Micah Alleyne, Kenny Bazile, Stanley Elianor and Keith Luncheon have all been charged with murder.

Prosecutors say they plan to prove their case with surveillance video and dozens of witnesses.

One witness is Tyshawn Crawford, the fifth suspect. Prosecutors say his plea deal will allow him to avoid a possible life sentence in exchange for his testimony. He still faces a minimum of 14 years in prison.

The other four face up to life in prison if convicted.

Their defense lawyers say Crawford is lying to reduce his prison term.