A Bank of America employee, identified as 32-year-old Erin Piacenti of Chester, New Jersey, died Monday afternoon after being stabbed in an apparently random and unprovoked attack in Times Square, New York City. Police fatally shot the suspect, 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros of Queens, after she allegedly attacked Piacenti and another individual.

The incident occurred around 4:45 p.m. on August 31, 2026, near 41st Street and Seventh Avenue. Piacenti was walking when she was allegedly attacked. According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the suspect pulled two knives from a bag and stabbed Piacenti in the abdomen.

Within 20 seconds, the suspect allegedly attacked a second victim, a 68-year-old man from Rhode Island, who was waiting to cross the street with his wife after exiting the subway. He was also stabbed in the abdomen and was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, where he is currently in stable condition.

Following the attacks, the suspect fled north toward an NYPD substation. Witnesses alerted officers, who confronted her. Despite repeated commands to drop the knives, the suspect refused and made threats, stating, "I'm not dropping anything. I would rather kill both of you," and "I will kill you." Officers initially deployed Tasers before two officers discharged their service weapons.

The suspect, Cisneros, was pronounced dead at a hospital. Tisch stated that Cisneros had a documented mental health history. Bank of America issued a statement expressing shock and deep sadness over the loss of their colleague, extending condolences to her family.

This incident has raised concerns about public safety in one of New York City's busiest tourist areas. The seemingly random nature of the attacks and the suspect's alleged mental health issues highlight ongoing challenges in addressing violence in public spaces.

The New York City Police Department is continuing its investigation into the events leading up to the stabbings and the subsequent officer-involved shooting. The investigation will likely examine the suspect's history and any potential contributing factors to her alleged actions.

Authorities are reviewing the use of force by the officers involved, a standard procedure in such cases. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of crime and the critical role of law enforcement in responding to immediate threats.