Woman Shot by Police in Times Square After Knife Attack
A woman was shot by police in New York's Times Square on Saturday after she allegedly attacked at least two people with knives, according to authorities and witness accounts.
Police said the woman, whose name has not been released, was armed with two kitchen knives and had slashed at least two people near West 43rd Street and Seventh Avenue. The victims' conditions have not been disclosed.
The incident unfolded in one of the most heavily policed areas of New York City, adjacent to a New York Police Department substation at One Times Square, the building known for its annual New Year's Eve ball drop.
Video posted on social media, reviewed by multiple news outlets, shows a group of at least 10 officers gathered around the woman as she brandished the knives. At least one officer attempted to subdue her with a Taser, but the weapon did not incapacitate her, according to the footage. The video shows the woman walking toward the officers while waving the knives. As one officer backed away, he and at least two others drew their handguns, and gunshots can be heard. The woman then fell to the ground, where officers handcuffed her and rendered first aid.
The woman was taken to a hospital in critical condition, according to a report by the South China Morning Post, which cited local media. The same report said police do not believe the attack was terror-related and are investigating the woman's mental health history.
Authorities closed part of Seventh Avenue and cordoned off the area while they investigated. The New York Police Department planned a news briefing, but as of the latest reports, officials had not released further details about the woman's condition or the victims.
The incident occurred in one of New York's most visited and heavily guarded locations, drawing immediate attention from bystanders and onlookers. Video captured by witnesses quickly circulated on social media, showing the confrontation between the woman and the officers.
The New York Police Department has not yet released an official statement beyond confirming the investigation and the closure of the area. Officials have not confirmed whether the two people attacked were seriously injured or their current status.
The woman's identity and any potential charges have not been announced. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have appealed for any additional witnesses or video footage to come forward.