Manhattan, NY — A profound tragedy struck the Upper East Side on a peaceful morning, as a local community reels from a devastating incident near Gracie Mansion that police are investigating as a murder-suicide. The event has sparked an outpouring of support for the family of Marisa Galloway, who was fatally shot during the encounter.
Over the weekend, an online fundraiser for Galloway’s bereaved family surged past $50,000, reflecting widespread community support. The GoFundMe page, set up by a family friend, highlights Galloway’s role as a dedicated mother and her impactful, kind-hearted nature that resonated deeply with those who knew her.
According to NYPD officials, the crisis unfolded early Friday morning when Galloway, a mother of two, was ambushed while securing her youngest child in their car. The assailant, identified as Kathleen Leigh—the grandmother of Galloway’s elder child—reportedly shot Galloway before turning the gun on herself. Fortunately, the child in the car remained uninjured.
Police Chief Joseph Kenny provided further details, noting that law enforcement found two firearms at the scene—one on the sidewalk near the women and another in Leigh’s possession. The motives behind Leigh’s grievous actions appear to be rooted in a contentious custody battle. Leigh, who is said to have been a retired probation officer from Chicago, had been residing with family members in New York City for several years.
The shocking event has left the community and Galloway’s acquaintances searching for answers and ways to remember her life. Marc Bellanger, the organizer of the GoFundMe, expressed the collective mourning of those who knew Galloway, emphasizing how her presence enriched the lives of others and how her legacy would endure through her children.
The murder-suicide raises broader questions about the dynamics of family disputes and their potential escalation into violence. Furthermore, it has prompted discussions on the availability of resources and support for those caught in familial legal struggles, particularly how mental health interventions might prevent such tragedies.
The NYPD continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the tragedy, hoping to provide clarity and closure for everyone affected. As the community begins to heal, the focus remains on supporting Galloway’s children and honoring her memory through acts of kindness and charity, mirroring the values she embodied.
To promote mental well-being and prevent crisis escalations, it’s suggested that individuals dealing with emotional distress or familial conflicts seek professional guidance. Numerous resources, including the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, offer confidential support to those in need, contributing to community efforts to address and mitigate such tragic occurrences.