Update: Suspect Surrenders – Barbara Gustern dies of her injuries after being pushed onto a Chelsea street, and striking her head

Posted By: Editor Editor March 18, 2022

The NYC 2022 Homicide Victim List is available here

NYPD said Barbara Gustern, 87, a Broadway Vocal Coach was in the area of West 28th Street and 8th Avenue on March 10th at approximately 8:25pm when an unknown woman approached her from behind and shoved her on the street, causing Gustern to fall and hit her head.

The victim was rushed to hospital where she died of her injuries on March 15th.

Police are searching for the suspted who fled westbound on West 28th Street towards 9th Avenue. She is described as a woman with a light complexion and long dark colored hair. The individual was last seen wearing a black jacket, black leggings, white skirt (possibly a dress) and dark colored shoes.

New photos released of woman who fatally shoved New York singing coach | The Independent
Suspect in Barbara Gustern homicide
Suspect in Barbara Gustern homicide

Update March 22
Lauren Pazienza, 26, of Port Jefferson, L.I., surrendered herselp to the 10th Precinct Police. Pazienza is facing charges of manslaughter and assault. Her bail has been set at $500,000, according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

While Pazienza’s parents live in Port Jefferson, reports suggest that she lived in Astoria, Queens, with her fiancé.