Rookie NYPD officer indicted in shooting death of unarmed man

NEW YORK -- The New York City police officer who fatally shot an unarmed man in the stairway of a Brooklyn housing project has been indicted in the case.

Akai Gurley, 28, was killed in November while rookie NYPD Officer Peter Liang and his partner were patrolling the Pink houses in East New York.

Liang had his gun in his hand when police say it accidentally went off, striking Gurley as he walked with a female friend.

The specific charges are not known at this time. A grand jury began hearing the case on February 4.

Liang will surrender Wednesday to face the charges.

Gurley's domestic partner has filed a notice of claim against the city and a separate notice of claim against the city Housing Authority seeking a total of $50 million.

Police Commissioner William Bratton has said Gurley was "totally innocent."

PBA President Pat Lynch released the following statement after the grand jury indictment was announced:

"This officer deserves the same due process afforded to anyone involved in the accidental death of another. The fact the he was assigned to patrol one most dangerous housing projects in New York City must be considered among the circumstances of this tragic accident."