Times Square stabbing: Police shoot female attacker

A woman armed with at least one knife stabbed two people in New York City’s Times Square late Tuesday night before she was shot and killed by police, authorities said. The victims were a suspect in an earlier assault and a female bystander. The attack unfolded just before midnight near the iconic TKTS red steps. Police arrived within minutes and opened fire after the woman refused to drop her weapon, according to multiple law enforcement officials.

This latest violent incident in Times Square—one of the world’s busiest tourist hubs—raises fresh concerns about public safety in a district that has seen a rise in petty crimes and occasional high-profile attacks in recent years. While serious assaults remain rare, the area’s reputation as a global symbol of New York City makes any outbreak of violence feel more alarming. Last year, a man attacked tourists with a hatchet near Times Square, injuring two. Authorities have attributed the increase in visible crime to a mix of post-pandemic economic stress, ongoing mental health crises, and the return of large crowds. The NYPD has ramped up patrols in the area, but critics argue more needs to be done to address root causes like homelessness and untreated mental illness.

The two victims were rushed to nearby hospitals. The male suspect—identified as the target of the initial assault—died from his injuries. The female bystander, who was not targeted, remains in critical condition. Police have not released the woman’s identity or motive, but neighbors described her as a familiar presence in the neighborhood, known to struggle with mental health issues. Surveillance footage shows her walking quickly through the crowd before the stabbings. Authorities are reviewing camera feeds and interviewing witnesses. No charges have been filed, and the incident is being treated as a criminal investigation.

The shooting is likely to intensify debates over police response times and the handling of mentally unstable individuals in public spaces. With tourism rebounding, city leaders face pressure to balance visitor safety with civil liberties. The NYPD has promised a thorough review of how officers handled the scene, including whether de-escalation techniques were properly applied. Meanwhile, local advocacy groups are calling for more investment in social services and crisis intervention teams. The timing of the incident—during peak tourist season—means it will likely remain in the spotlight for days to come.