New York, NY – In a tragic incident that unfolded in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, a mother and grandmother lost their lives amid a custodial dispute, according to police reports. The violent encounter, which police are investigating as a suspected murder-suicide, took place early Friday morning near the serene environs of Gracie Mansion, shocking the local community.
Authorities have identified the individuals involved as Marissa Galloway, 45, and Kathleen Leigh, 65, the grandmother of Galloway’s child. According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, the incident stemmed from an ongoing disagreement over child custody. The confrontation occurred as Galloway was preparing to drive her child from East 88th Street, a normally quiet area moments from the mayor’s residence.
Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene where locals, many of whom were out with children, scrambled for safety upon hearing gunshots. Police say Leigh approached Galloway while she was loading her vehicle, pulling out a 9mm Glock and shooting Galloway first in the head and then again in the back. Leigh then turned the gun on herself and was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
Galloway was quickly transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly afterward. The NYPD disclosed that there had been multiple calls to address domestic disputes involving the family in the past, reflecting a history of deeply rooted familial tension.
Leigh, a retiree from a career in probation oversight in Cook County, had relocated to New York City three years prior, where she was living with other family members. She was found with another handgun in her possession at the scene, raising questions about her intentions and mental state at the time of the incident.
Galloway, remembered by many as a spirited and dedicated individual, had strong ties to Fordham University as both a former student and a long-serving volunteer assistant coach for the track and field team. The university community expressed profound grief, stating it was “deeply saddened by the tragic death” and extended condolences to her loved ones. Beyond her professional achievements, Galloway was also noted for her role as an educator in Westchester and a devoted mother to her four-year-old and one-year-old daughters, the latter of whom was not present at the scene.
As the community reels from the impact of the tragedy, local authorities and counseling services have reached out to provide support to those affected. The incident highlights the severe consequences of domestic and custodial disputes, sparking discussions among residents and officials about ways to better address mental health and family conflict resolution.
The NYPD continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the incident, hoping to uncover more details that could prevent such tragedies in the future. Meanwhile, the neighborhood strives to recover from the shock, remembering the lives lost and contemplating the fragility of domestic peace.