A violent incident in New York City’s Times Square left two people dead, including the suspected attacker, after police responded to a reported stabbing on August 31, 2026. Authorities said a woman allegedly attacked two people with knives before she was fatally shot by officers after refusing to drop her weapons.
Two Victims Attacked Within Seconds
According to police, the incident began at around 4:24 p.m. near Seventh Avenue and West 41st Street. Authorities received multiple emergency calls reporting that a woman armed with knives was attacking people.
Police identified the suspect as 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros of Queens. Investigators said she allegedly removed two knives from a shopping bag before attacking a 68-year-old man who had recently exited a subway station.
The man suffered a stab wound to the abdomen and was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition.
Seconds later, the suspect allegedly continued along Seventh Avenue and stabbed a 32-year-old woman. The woman was also taken to the hospital but later died from her injuries.
Police described the attacks as random and unprovoked.
Officers Shoot Suspect After Confrontation
NYPD officers located the suspect near West 42nd and West 43rd streets while she was still holding two knives, officials said.
Police repeatedly ordered her to drop the weapons and attempted to bring the situation under control. Officers also used Tasers, but authorities said those efforts were unsuccessful.
According to police, the woman continued to threaten officers and moved toward them while armed with the knives. Two officers then fired their weapons.
The suspect was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Investigation Continues Into Times Square Police Shooting
Authorities said the confrontation was recorded on police body cameras, and an internal investigation is underway.
Police officials said the suspect had previous documented mental health-related encounters with the NYPD but had no prior arrest record with the department. Investigators said there was currently no indication that the Times Square stabbing was connected to terrorism.
City officials expressed condolences to the victims and their families while praising the officers who responded to the dangerous situation in one of New York City’s busiest areas.
The investigation into the deadly Times Square stabbing and police shooting remains ongoing.
