Two people were killed and a third was left in critical condition following a stabbing attack in New York’s Times Square, authorities said, while police shot the suspected attacker after she allegedly confronted officers with a knife.
The suspected attacker, a 49-year-old woman, allegedly stabbed two people within approximately 20 seconds, according to preliminary information.
The first victim, a 68-year-old man, was stabbed in the abdomen after leaving a subway station and while waiting to cross the street. The woman then allegedly fatally stabbed a 32-year-old woman, also in the abdomen.
The attack occurred at around 4:30 p.m. in one of New York City’s busiest areas.
Following the stabbings, the woman reportedly moved toward an area near a New York Police Department substation. Police officers found her holding a knife and allegedly waving it in their direction.
Videos circulating on social media showed dramatic scenes near the site, with dozens of bystanders present. The woman was seen wearing a pink shirt, jeans and carrying a bag while holding a knife and approaching police officers.
Officers initially attempted to stop her using a Taser. According to authorities, however, she removed the electrodes and continued confronting the officers.
One of the officers then opened fire when the woman allegedly began moving toward them with the knife pointed in their direction.
Police officers immediately approached the woman after the shooting and provided first aid.
New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch said officers had communicated with the woman for approximately four minutes, repeatedly ordering her to drop the knife, but she did not comply.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances and motive behind the attack.
