NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — An 87-year-old woman who was pushed to the ground by a stranger while walking down the street on Thursday has died, police said Tuesday.
Barbara Gustern, a beloved voice coach, was walking on 28th Street and 8th Avenue, steps away from her home, when a woman approached her from behind around 8:30 p.m. and shoved her to the ground in a random attack.
Barbara GusternBarbara Gustern via Facebook
Gustern suffered serious head injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
On Tuesday, Gustern's grandson announced her death through Gustern's Facebook page.
"At 11:15AM, we have lost one of the brightest little flames to ever grace this world," the post read.
NYPD's Chief of Detectives, James Essig, also announced Gustern's death during a Tuesday press conference, calling it an "unprovoked, senseless attack."
"We're asking the public's help in solving this disgusting and disgraceful offense committed against the vulnerable elderly female who is doing nothing but walking down the streets of New York City," Essig said.
Barbara GusternBarbara Gustern via Facebook
The suspect remains at large and is described as having a light complexion and long, dark colored hair. She was last seen wearing a black jacket, black leggings, white skirt (possibly a dress) and dark colored shoes.
Surveillance image of suspectNYPD
Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
