A renowned New York 87-year-old singing coach developed a fatal brain injury after a woman pushed her to the ground just steps away from her Manhattan apartment building on Thursday night, according to New York Crime Stoppers.
The New York Times reports that Barbara Maier Gustern was pushed from behind Saturday night at around 9:30 p.m. as she left her Chelsea residence off of West 28th Street in Chelsea. Friends who were at her home found her in the apartment lobby covered in blood after a bicyclist spotted her hurt outside and brought her in.
Gustern was taken to a hospital for medical treatment after hitting her head during the fall but ultimately passed away from her injuries.
Police released security footage of the incident, which showed Lauren Pazienza, of Port Jefferson, reportedly shoving Gustern before fleeing the scene. Police have been looking for Pazienza since the attack.
NBC New York reports that Pazienza turned herself in Tuesday while in the presence of her lawyer.
Last Tuesday, NYPD Chief of Detectives James Essig called the incident “disgusting,” pointing out the “disgraceful offense committed against a vulnerable, elderly female who was doing nothing but walking down the streets of New York City.”
So far, no motive for the attack is known.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Naomi Irion/Police Handout]
