A tragic incident unfolded in a wealthy New York City neighborhood involving a retired Chicago woman, a custody dispute, and a deadly murder-suicide. The grandmother, Kathleen Leigh, shot and killed Marisa Galloway, the mother of her 4-year-old grandson, before turning the gun on herself. The horrific event took place on a Manhattan street just steps away from Mayor Eric Adams’ home, Gracie Mansion.
Marisa Galloway, a schoolteacher and former track and field coach at Fordham University, tragically lost her life in the senseless act of violence. The 46-year-old victim had just placed her 1-year-old child in a car seat when Leigh approached and opened fire. The incident was caught on surveillance video, showing the harrowing sequence of events that unfolded.
Police found two pistols at the scene, one of which Leigh dropped after shooting herself. The other weapon was recovered from a tote bag. Despite the violent confrontation, the 1-year-old child in the back of the car survived the ordeal unharmed.
The tragic murder-suicide was the culmination of a history of domestic disputes between Galloway and Leigh, revolving around custody arrangements for the 4-year-old child. Galloway had previously filed multiple reports and complaints with the NYPD, but no arrests were made in connection with the incidents.
Marisa Galloway was not only a dedicated educator but also a former college athlete who had returned to her alma mater, Fordham University, as a volunteer assistant track and field coach. The university community mourned her loss, remembering her as a talented high jumper and valued member of the team.
Galloway’s athletic achievements at Fordham included placing third in the high jump at the Metropolitan Championships during her senior season in 2001. She held a bachelor’s degree from Fordham College at Rose Hill and a master’s degree from the Fordham Graduate School of Education.
The tragic loss of Marisa Galloway has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, both at Fordham University and beyond. The senseless act of violence that took her life serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic disputes and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marisa Galloway’s loved ones during this difficult time.
