A man with a machete slashed and injured three people at New York City’s Grand Central Terminal on Saturday before being fatally shot by police, officials said.
Details of the Attack
The NYPD responded to the scene on the 4/5/6 subway platform at Grand Central-42nd Street around 9:40 a.m. After a civilian alerted them to a slashing victim. The man, identified as 44-year-old Anthony Griffin, was reportedly “behaving erratically, repeatedly stating that he was ‘Lucifer,'” according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Griffin refused to comply with repeated orders to drop the knife and advanced toward officers, at which point an officer shot him twice. He was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital. Tisch stated that officers attempted to de-escalate the situation and offered assistance, saying, “We are going to get you help.”
The victims – an 84-year-old man, a 65-year-old man, and a 70-year-old woman – were hospitalized with serious injuries, though they are not expected to be life-threatening. One victim suffered a skull fracture and severe lacerations. Investigators believe the attacks were random and the victims did not know each other.
Disruption and Investigation
The NYPD issued an alert advising people to avoid the area around Grand Central. The MTA temporarily bypassed the station with 4, 5, 6, and 7 trains, providing passengers with bus vouchers. Subway service has since resumed.
Police stated that Griffin had three prior arrests. The incident was captured on body-worn camera, and the NYPD is conducting an internal investigation, with footage to be released in accordance with standard procedure. New York Governor Kathy Hochul was briefed on the incident and expressed gratitude for the officers’ quick response.
Calls for Increased Support
Transit advocate Charlton D’Souza, with Passengers United, suggested the require for increased mental health resources at transit hubs, stating, “You need clinicians, you need psychologists, and you need them down there to help them.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the attack occur?
The attack began around 9:40 a.m. On Saturday at Grand Central-42nd Street.
What weapon was used in the attack?
The suspect was armed with a large knife described as a machete.
How many people were injured in the attack?
Three people were slashed and injured during the attack.
As investigations continue, questions remain about the factors contributing to this incident and how to best ensure the safety of commuters in New York City’s transit system.