Central Park birding community mourns 'Lee,' 63, killed in Ramble

Key points

• NYPD found the victim unconscious near East Drive and East 74th Street around 9:43 a.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
• The woman, identified by friends as Lee, was pronounced dead at the scene with head trauma; police later retracted initial reports of stabbing.
• Jonathan Robles, 36, was arrested that evening and charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
• Robles, whose last address was a homeless shelter in Hell's Kitchen, surrendered to detectives and was awaiting arraignment.
• The victim had no identification on her person, and police withheld her name pending family notification.
• Friends described Lee as a regular presence in the Ramble who maintained bird feeders, sold artwork, and provided shelter to others.

Background

This incident occurred in the Ramble, a wooded area of Central Park known for its winding paths and birding activity. The victim had been living in a gazebo or summerhouse in the area, according to multiple sources. The park had recently experienced a nor'easter, which may have affected conditions on the day of the incident. The NYPD initially reported stabbing but later corrected the cause of death to head trauma, indicating evolving information during the early investigation.

How outlets are covering it

Gothamist and ABC7 emphasized the victim's role in the birding community, highlighting her contributions to maintaining feeders and her status as a familiar, respected figure among park regulars. Gothamist noted that friends described her as 'tough' and 'streetwise,' while ABC7 quoted a friend calling her 'regal' and 'like a professor.' NBC 4 focused on the immediate police response and the suspect's background, noting his residence at a homeless shelter. The New York Times initially reported stabbing but later aligned with the NYPD's retraction, focusing on the lack of identification and the ongoing investigation. All outlets agreed on the basic facts of the arrest and the victim's age but differed in emphasis: Gothamist and ABC7 highlighted the community impact, while NBC 4 and The New York Times focused on the procedural aspects of the case.

Why it matters

The killing of a long-time park resident in a public space raises concerns about safety and the treatment of homeless individuals in urban parks. The victim's role in the birding community and her support of others highlight the social fabric of Central Park, which was disrupted by the violence. The case also underscores the challenges in identifying victims without identification and the importance of accurate reporting in evolving investigations.

What to watch

Jonathan Robles is scheduled for arraignment, and investigators are working to determine a motive. The NYPD has not publicly identified the victim, pending notification of her family. Friends and community members are expected to continue mourning and advocating for the victim's recognition. The case may lead to increased scrutiny of safety measures in Central Park and the treatment of homeless individuals in public spaces.