Title: Ridgewood Parking Dispute: Mother-Daughter Duo Speak Out After Viral Incident
In a surprising turn of events, the mother-daughter pair at the center of a viral parking dispute in Ridgewood, Queens, have shared their side of the story through an exclusive interview. Andreea Dumitru, 45, and her daughter Sabrina Starman, 21, faced significant public scrutiny following a confrontation on July 7, 2025, which erupted over a parking spot being held with trash cans. The incident has resulted in serious criminal charges against them, including first-degree assault and second-degree harassment.
Details of the Altercation
The conflict began over a parking space that Dumitru was reserving for her son, who requires medical access due to his disability. Dumitru explained that she arrived approximately 15 minutes after the initial altercation commenced and attempted to de-escalate the situation. She recounted that Jada McPherson, a 21-year-old involved in the dispute, was verbally abusive, making racial slurs and misgendering comments directed at both her and Starman. Dumitru expressed deep regret for her reaction during the heated moment, stating, “My response was wrong,” while acknowledging the provocation they faced from McPherson.
Sabrina Starman, who identifies as an intersex trans woman, supported her mother’s account. She recounted that she intervened after hearing the screaming and felt compelled to protect her mother from the ongoing harassment. Starman tied her emotional response to past trauma, stating her instinct to defend her family and the broader trans, intersex, Latino, and Hispanic communities fueled her actions.
Consequences and Public Reaction
Both Dumitru and Starman highlighted the ongoing backlash they have faced since the video of the incident was posted online. They reported receiving death threats and harassment, leading to heightened anxiety and fear for their safety. Starman specifically mentioned her struggles with feeling secure in her living environment, particularly after just beginning to embrace her identity.
The interview clarified that another individual seen in the viral video was merely a neighbor and not a family member. The duo firmly denounced his behavior, distancing themselves from his actions during the altercation.
Reflection on the Incident
Dumitru and Starman addressed the controversial practice of saving parking spots, which they acknowledged using methods learned from neighbors. They expressed a strong commitment to never engage in such behavior again, recognizing the chaos it can cause. Dumitru emphasized that the spot was specifically needed due to her son’s medical constraints, but admitted they mismanaged the situation.
In light of recent events in the community regarding harassment and discrimination, this incident has sparked wider discussions about social tensions and the consequences of public disputes in urban settings. The viral nature of the footage has turned a local parking debate into a matter of public and media interest, highlighting how quickly perceptions can shift in the age of social media.
You can watch the full interview with the mother-daughter duo for deeper insights into their experiences and perspectives during this troubling time.
Watch the full interview here.
In conclusion, while Dumitru and Starman’s struggle illustrates the complexities surrounding personal disputes and public perception, it also raises critical questions about safety, identity, and community interactions in today’s society, underscoring the importance of fostering understanding and dialogue amidst conflict.
