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Barbara Maier Gustern: Celebrity voice coach, 87, dies after being shoved to ground by woman

Barbara Maier Gustern was pushed to the ground by a younger woman in Chelsea, subsequently suffering a brain injury

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: An 87-year-old former voice coach, who was critically hurt after being shoved to an NYC pavement in an unprovoked attack, has died from her injuries. Barbara Maier Gustern, who once coached rock singer Debbie Harry, was pushed from behind by a younger woman in Chelsea on Thursday, March 10. The suspect, whom the NYPD described as a woman in her 30s, is still on the run.

Following the attack, Gustern's grandson took to Facebook, writing, "She has suffered traumatic damage to the left side of her brain, and has been unconscious the entire time. She is intubated and we are unclear how much she is able to breathe on her own. Should she awake, she will most likely suffer speech problems and may be unable to move her right side. It is a very serious injury." He added, "Do what you can for your fellow human being, no matter how small. Make the time. Preventing needless loss and violence like this starts with us as individuals. We must care more for each other."

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Police said that Gustern was walking on West 28th Street near Ninth Avenue at around 8 pm on Thursday when a woman shoved her from behind in a random act of violence. NYPD released surveillance footage of the 'red-haired' attacker. She is seen wearing a black jacket, black leggings, a white skirt, and dark-colored shoes.

"We’re asking the public’s help in solving this disgusting, disgraceful law offense committed against the vulnerable elderly female who is doing nothing but walking down the streets of New York City,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives James Essig said at a press. “So please, any, any information on this person’s whereabouts or whereabouts for 1-800-577-TIPS." he added.

Back in 2020, Gustern spoke to New York Post about her career. She had celebrated her 85th birthday starring in a concert with her former students Harry, Heidi Rodewald, and Stew. “I wanted to do something good for the world, and I know the work they do,” she had said. “I’ve had some bad things happen to me, but I’ve had a wonderful life.” Gustern was once an aspiring Broadway singer from Indiana, and later became a popular singing coach. 

Following her death, her family wrote on Facebook, "Today, at 11:15AM, we have lost one of the brightest little flames to ever grace this world. I ask that you all give me a little time and space, but I want to make time for anyone and everyone who wants to know more about her final moments. Bobbob, I love you, you are and always will be my heart. I love you all so much, I could not have made it through these past 5 days without all of your support."