Fatal Stabbing in Times Square: Victim and Suspect Details Released

Authorities have identified the woman fatally stabbed in Times Square as Erin Piacenti, a 32-year-old from Chester, New Jersey. Piacenti suffered a stab wound to the abdomen and was declared dead shortly after being transported to a hospital. The attack occurred in the busy area near 41st Street and Seventh Avenue.

Police revealed the suspect, Pamela Cisneros, 49, from Queens, had a documented history of mental health issues. Cisneros was shot and killed by police after the attack, which also left a 68-year-old man injured. The injured man was exiting the subway with his wife when Cisneros approached with knives taken from a red Target bag. She waved the weapons before stabbing him in the side.

The attacks on Piacenti and the man happened within roughly 20 seconds of each other. Investigators believe these incidents were random and unprovoked, with no links to terrorism. The first victim was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where he is recovering.

Following the stabbings, Cisneros continued along Seventh Avenue, encountering police between 42nd and 43rd streets. Officers reportedly spent 4 minutes instructing her to drop the knives. After stun guns proved ineffective, Cisneros advanced toward the officers, prompting two to open fire. She later died at the hospital.

Police records show Cisneros had known mental health issues dating back to 2018 and 2019, although she had no prior criminal history. Both knives were recovered from the scene.