A New York woman has recently pled guilty to the tragic incident that resulted in the death of a well-known Broadway vocal coach. Lauren Pazienza, 28, admitted to pushing Barbara Maier Gustern, 87, to the ground after verbally assaulting her in March 2022. The violent act was described as a random act of violence.
In a plea deal, Pazienza agreed to serve eight years in prison and undergo five years of post-release supervision. The sentencing is scheduled for September 29. This resolution holds Pazienza accountable for her actions, according to Manhattan District Attorney Bragg.
Barbara Maier Gustern was a highly respected figure in the theater world, having worked as a vocal coach for the cast of the 2019 Broadway revival of “Oklahoma,” which received a Tony award for best musical revival. She also offered private lessons, including to iconic singer Debbie Harry of the band Blondie.
Pazienza left Gustern injured on the pavement without providing any assistance. After approximately 20 minutes in the vicinity, she returned to her apartment in Queens with her then-fiancé. Authorities revealed that she confessed to pushing someone that night and subsequently deleted her social media accounts, removed her wedding website, and fled to Long Island to seek shelter with her family.
If the case had gone to trial, Pazienza could have faced up to 25 years in prison. The violence occurred after a heated argument between Pazienza and her fiancé during a celebration of their upcoming wedding in a Manhattan park, which ended abruptly when the park closed. Pazienza’s attorney argued that her volatile state, involving drugs, alcohol, and marijuana, potentially affected her ability to possess criminal intent.
Although this plea deal brings some closure to the case, the loss of Barbara Maier Gustern is still mourned by the community at large. Her musical talents and contributions to the theater world were highly valued and will be greatly missed.
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