NEW YORK, NY. (THECOUNT) — Pamela Cisneros was shot and killed by New York City police Monday after authorities say she stabbed two people, killing one, during a seemingly random attack in Times Square.
The violence began near 41st Street and Seventh Avenue when Cisneros allegedly approached a 68-year-old man who had just exited the subway and was waiting to cross the street. Police said she produced two knives and waved them before stabbing the man in the side.
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About 20 seconds later and approximately one block away, police said Cisneros stabbed a 32-year-old woman in the stomach. The woman later died from her injuries.
Responding officers located Cisneros with assistance from witnesses and attempted to take her into custody. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said officers spoke with Cisneros for approximately four minutes and repeatedly ordered her to drop the knife.
According to Tisch, Cisneros refused the commands and told officers, “I’m not dropping anything. I would rather kill both of you.” Tisch said Cisneros repeated, “I will kill you.”
Officers deployed Tasers twice, but the devices did not appear to stop Cisneros, police said. Cisneros then advanced toward the officers while armed with a knife, prompting two officers to open fire.
Cisneros was struck by police gunfire and transported to a hospital, where she died.
Both knives allegedly used in the attacks were recovered at the scene.
The 68-year-old stabbing victim was also transported for medical treatment. His current condition was not provided in the available information.
Tisch said investigators believe the stabbings were unprovoked and random. She also said there was no indication of a terrorist motive.
Cisneros had previous interactions with the NYPD involving mental-health concerns but did not have a prior criminal record, according to WNBC.
The NYPD closed portions of Times Square from 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue to 47th Street while detectives investigated the shootings and stabbing attacks. Police warned of delays in the surrounding area.
The officer-involved shooting is expected to be investigated separately as authorities review the circumstances that led officers to use deadly force.
Times Square is located in Midtown Manhattan at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and is one of New York City’s busiest pedestrian and commercial areas. The area draws large numbers of commuters, residents and tourists daily.
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