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Animal-Rescue Advocate Jumps to Her Death From Yorkville Apt., NYPD Says

By Shaye Weaver | January 27, 2017 12:18pm

YORKVILLE — A wealthy donor to animal-rescue organizations jumped to her death from her East 86th Street balcony, police said.

Margaret Fagenson, 68, climbed over her 14th-floor balcony at the Henderson House apartments and leapt to her death just before 11 a.m. Thursday, authorities said.

The death is still under investigation, police said.

Fagenson was married for 45 years to Robert Fagenson, the CEO and chairman of Fagenson & Co. investment firm, and was a supporter and volunteer at the ASPCA, according to an obituary Legacy.com.

Matt Bershadker, the ASPCA's president and CEO, said the organization is deeply saddened by Fagenson's death.

"A true hero for animals in need, Margaret and her husband, Robert Fagenson, devoted considerable energy and resources toward a variety of ASPCA causes, including hosting events at their home and supporting the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center, which helps victimized dogs overcome their trauma," he said in a statement. "Margaret, who regularly volunteered at the ASPCA Kitten Nursery and read to dogs at the ASPCA Adoption Center, was a vocal advocate for at-risk animals, and we are grateful for her inspiring compassion and commitment.”

The Fagensons donated to other animal-rescue organizations, including $75,000 to the North Shore Animal League America in 2011, the Wall Street Journal reported.

She is survived by her husband, two daughters and a granddaughter, the obituary said. 

Her memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30, at Frank E. Campbell funeral home, 1076 Madison Ave.