Authorities have identified Erin Piacenti, a 32-year-old woman from Chester, New Jersey, as the victim killed in a stabbing incident on Monday afternoon in Times Square. The attack occurred near 41st Street and Seventh Avenue, a busy area frequented by tourists. Piacenti was stabbed in the abdomen and was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to the hospital.

Police have also identified Pamela Cisneros as the attacker. Cisneros, a 49-year-old resident of Queens, was shot and killed by police after the stabbing spree. She also injured a 68-year-old man, who was stabbed in the side. The man was exiting the subway with his wife when he was randomly attacked.

The attack began when Cisneros retrieved knives from a red Target bag. After attacking the older man, she moved closer to Piacenti, with the stabbings occurring approximately 20 seconds apart. Law enforcement officials believe the attacks were random and not linked to terrorism. The injured man was hospitalized and is recovering at Bellevue Hospital.

“Tonight, our thoughts are, of course, with the victims of this horrific attack and their families. One life was cut far too short by a senseless act of violence,” remarked NYPD Chief John Tisch.

Following the incidents, Cisneros encountered officers between 42nd and 43rd Streets. Despite being asked for four minutes to drop the knives, she refused. Police attempted to subdue her with stun guns, but these measures were ineffective. When Cisneros advanced toward them, two officers opened fire, resulting in her death.

The NYPD had prior documentation of Cisneros’ mental health issues in 2018 and 2019, though she had no previous criminal record. Both knives used in the attacks were retrieved at the scene of the crime.