Central Park Food Vendor Turf War Leads to Violent Assault

A violent altercation between food vendors in Central Park resulted in the stabbing of a 20-year-old woman on March 12, 2026. Myriam Guama, 38, was arrested for allegedly slashing the victim with a razor blade during a dispute over vending territory near the Heckscher Ballfields at 63rd Street and Center Drive. Accompanying Guama were two male suspects, Edison Gualotuna, 41, and John Chavez, 18, who reportedly assisted in the attack by physically restraining the victim and robbing her of $500.

New York PostABC7 New York

The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. and left the victim with multiple injuries, including cuts to her right arm, right leg, stomach, and neck. She was subsequently hospitalized but is in stable condition. Prosecutors have charged Guama, Gualotuna, and Chavez with robbery, assault, and attempted assault. During their arraignment, Guama was held on $75,000 cash bail, while Gualotuna and Chavez faced higher bail amounts of $150,000 and $100,000, respectively. The suspects are scheduled to return to court on March 17, 2026.

New York Post

This violent clash is part of an ongoing territorial dispute among food vendors in Central Park. The rivalry has reportedly escalated, with previous confrontations noted, including an altercation on Christmas Eve where the victim was identified as the aggressor. The tensions among vendors have raised concerns about safety in the park, particularly as the weather has recently warmed, attracting more visitors.

ABC7 New York

Law enforcement sources indicated that the attack was a direct result of the ongoing conflict over vending rights in Central Park. The New York Police Department is investigating the incident further to understand the dynamics of the vendor disputes and ensure public safety.

ABC7 New York

Some community members and local advocates have expressed concern over the increasing violence among food vendors, calling for better regulation and oversight of vending operations in Central Park. Critics argue that the lack of clear guidelines and support for vendors contributes to these conflicts, endangering both the vendors and park visitors.

ABC7 New York

There are discrepancies regarding the details of the incident, particularly the victim's age and the exact nature of the previous altercations. While some reports indicate the victim was 20 years old, others mention her as 24. Additionally, the roles of Gualotuna and Chavez in the incident remain unclear, with varying accounts of their involvement as vendors.

New York Post

• “The violence erupted over a clash over vending territory, sources said.” — Law Enforcement Source

New York Post

• “She was taken to New York Presbyterian Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.” — ABC7 News Report

ABC7 New York

• “The brutal attack left the victim with cuts and bleeding to her right arm, right leg, right side of her stomach and the left side of her neck, and she was hospitalized in stable condition.” — Prosecutor's Statement

New York Post

This incident highlights the escalating tensions among food vendors in Central Park and raises questions about safety and regulation in public spaces.

ABC7 New York