NYPD assistant chief allegedly fired stray shot during off-duty altercation with daughter’s boyfriend: sources

An off-duty senior NYPD officer, Assistant Chief Benjamin Gurley, was involved in an altercation with his daughter’s boyfriend in Rockland County, resulting in an accidental gunshot being fired, as per law enforcement sources. The incident took place late Sunday night in Haverstraw, New York.

The altercation reportedly occurred as Gurley confronted a man who was allegedly harassing his daughter, who is said to be dating the individual. During the heated confrontation, a stray shot was fired accidentally by Gurley, causing no injuries but resulting in an injury to his arm. He will be wearing a sling while he heals from the altercation.

The Haverstraw Police Department responded to the incident and is leading the investigation, with the NYPD’s Force Investigation Division and Internal Affairs Bureau also conducting separate probes. Despite the accidental gunfire, Gurley’s duty status has not been affected by the incident.

Gurley, who joined the NYPD as a deputy chief in 2000 before being promoted to assistant chief in 2023, expressed frustration earlier this year about the lack of promotions within the department. As a first-generation cop from the Bronx, Gurley has dedicated two decades to the force and is the father of three children.

The incident occurred just 30 miles north of the Bronx, where Gurley grew up. The senior officer remains dedicated to his role within the NYPD, despite the recent altercation with his daughter’s boyfriend.