Suspect in fatal New York City subway push indicted

NEW YORK -- The man accused of fatally pushing a subway rider into the path of an oncoming train was indicted by a Bronx grand jury on Monday, CBS New York reported.

Kevin Darden was indicted on charges of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter for allegedly pushing Wai Kuen Kuok in front of an oncoming train in New York City on Nov. 16. Kwok, 61, died on the scene.

Kwok had been on the way to Chinatown with his wife to have breakfast for her birthday, according to detectives. Police had previously told the station that the victim was standing on the platform with his wife and there was no indication that Kwok and the suspect knew each other before the incident.

Wearing a gray jail jumpsuit, Darden, 34, was handcuffed and expressionless as he entered the courtroom Monday for the brief hearing, CBS New York reported.

Edward McGowan, Darden's attorney, told reporters last week that his client was innocent until proven guilty.

"Kevin Darden is a human being. He's not a monster," McGowan said, according to CBS New York. "Like any human being who's charged with a crime, he's entitled to the presumption of innocence."

A man, who authorities have said was Darden, was seen on security tape after the fatal push. Investigators told reporters the man boarded a Bx35 bus and got off minutes later, entered a bodega and eventually left -- smoking a cigarette.

After Darden's arrest last week, the victim's family released a statement, saying "We extend our deepest appreciation for the outpouring of condolences, prayers, and support during this difficult time."

Darden has a lengthy criminal record, including 30 prior arrests on assault, robbery and drug charges, police say.

He is also reportedly suspected in a crime similar to the shoving incident that took place earlier this month, in which a 51-year-old man was pushed to the floor of a subway platform in Manhattan. The victim came forward and identified Darden after seeing video of him following the most recent incident.

Police also say Darden robbed an individual at a subway station in the Bronx, just prior to the fatal push.