Brief
Central Park Artist Lee Rogers Killed in Gazebo Attack
A beloved Central Park artist was murdered in a gazebo near the boathouse after a dispute with a 36‑year‑old man who later turned himself in.
By Felo News Desk · Published
A 63‑year‑old homeless woman, known as Lee Rogers, was found dead in a gazebo near Central Park’s boathouse on Sunday. Police say Rogers, who was famous for painting birds in the park, was bludgeoned with a stick during an argument with Jonathan Robles, 36, who later surrendered to authorities.
Rogers, also known as Elise Bainbridge Hill, had long been a fixture in the park, selling her wildlife watercolours to visitors and birdwatchers. She was described by a nature‑walk guide as “the Grandma Moses of Central Park.”
Robles was arrested on murder and criminal possession of a weapon charges and is awaiting arraignment in Manhattan court.
Key facts
- Lee Rogers, 63, was found dead in a Central Park gazebo near the boathouse. (nypost.com)
- Rogers was known for painting birds and selling her work to park visitors. (nypost.com)
- Jonathan Robles, 36, was arrested and turned himself in after the incident. (nypost.com)
- Rogers was also known as Elise Bainbridge Hill and had a history of homelessness and art. (nypost.com)
- Police say Rogers was bludgeoned with a stick during an argument with Robles. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Woman beaten to death in Central Park ID’d as beloved homeless artist famed for painting birds”
