Woman Stabs 2 In Times Square Killing 1 Before NYPD Shoots Her Dead

A 49-year-old woman from Queens stabbed two people in New York City’s Times Square on Monday afternoon, killing one and injuring another, before police shot her dead following a tense four minute confrontation.

The attack took place around 4:30 pm local time near one of Times Square’s busiest pedestrian areas, where thousands of commuters, tourists and families were present. The two stabbings occurred within a gap of just 20 seconds, according to reports.

The NYPD identified the woman as Pamela Cisneros. Police said she stabbed a 32-year-old woman and a 68-year-old man in what appeared to be a random and unprovoked attack. Both victims were stabbed in the abdomen. The female victim later died in hospital, while the male victim, initially reported to be in critical condition, was later described as stable.

After the attack, Cisneros reportedly attempted to flee but was confronted by officers near an NYPD substation. She was carrying two knives and refused repeated orders to drop them. Videos circulating on social media showed her holding the knives while facing several officers, with a crowd gathered nearby.

Police spent about four minutes trying to persuade her to surrender. According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Cisneros told officers, “I'm not dropping anything. I would rather kill both of you. I will kill you.” Officers then deployed Tasers, but they were ineffective. Police said Cisneros removed the devices and continued advancing towards officers while waving the knives.

Officers subsequently opened fire, striking Cisneros. She was taken to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Police said Cisneros had a documented mental health history and appeared emotionally disturbed. Authorities said the incident was initially reported as a possible knifepoint robbery but later indicated there was no clear motive. The attack was not classified as terrorism related and appeared to be random.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed that one victim and the alleged attacker had died, while the second victim remained hospitalized in stable condition. He thanked the NYPD officers who intervened, saying they had prevented the situation from becoming “even worse.” Mamdani also said an internal investigation would be conducted into the officer involved shooting and that responding officers’ body camera footage would be released to the public.