A vice-president of Bank of America, Erin Piacenti, has been killed in a stabbing attack in Times Square, New York City.
Piacenti, 32, was stabbed late Monday afternoon in what police described as an unprovoked and seemingly random attack. She was taken to hospital but later died from her injuries.
The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros, allegedly carried two knives in a red Target shopping bag before attacking two people within about 20 seconds.
According to New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch, a witness told investigators that Cisneros removed the knives from the bag before approaching the first victim.
The first victim, a 68-year-old man, was stabbed on the right side of his abdomen. He was taken to hospital and was reported to be in stable condition.
Police said Cisneros then continued along Seventh Avenue towards 42nd Street, where she encountered Piacenti and allegedly stabbed her.
Officers later confronted Cisneros after the attacks. Police said she refused to drop her weapons and instead charged towards them, prompting officers to shoot her.
She was subsequently taken to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Bank of America expressed shock and deep sadness over Piacenti’s death, describing her as a valued colleague who would be greatly missed.
The attack has renewed concerns over random acts of violence in one of New York City’s busiest and most heavily visited areas.
About the Author
