NYC Grand Central attack: Machete-wielding man slashes 3 at subway before being shot by NYPD - here's what happened

NYC Grand Central attack: A morning commute through Grand Central Terminal was abruptly interrupted when violence broke out on the subway platforms, leaving three people injured and prompting a fast police response, as per a report.

Authorities said the incident unfolded after 44-year-old Anthony Griffin entered the subway system at Vernon Boulevard–Jackson Avenue in Queens and rode a 7 train into Manhattan, as per a BBC report. When he arrived at Grand Central–42 Street, he began attacking people with a large knife described as a machete.

Three Victims Injured in Platform Attack

The attack spanned multiple areas of the station. An 84-year-old man suffered serious cuts to his head and face, while a 65-year-old man was also badly injured, including an open skull fracture, as per the BBC report. A 70-year-old woman sustained cuts to her shoulder.


All three victims were taken to hospital, and their injuries were reported as not life-threatening.

Suspect Described as Acting Erratically

Transit officers nearby were alerted at around 09:40 EDT. Officials said the man was acting erratically and repeatedly claimed he was “Lucifer,” as per the BBC report. Despite repeated instructions from officers to drop the weapon, he did not comply and instead advanced toward them with the knife still in hand.

Police Response and Fatal Shooting

One officer fired, striking him twice. Life-saving efforts were attempted, but Griffin was later pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital.

Officials Confirm No Terrorism Link

Officials confirmed there was no suspected link to terrorism. New York Governor Kathy Hochul called the incident a “senseless act of violence” that injured innocent people, as per the BBC report.

City officials also highlighted the quick response from transit officers. Mayor Zohran Mamdani praised the police response, and authorities said body camera footage from the incident will be released.

Background Details Shared by Police

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch explained that Griffin had entered the subway in Queens before the attack and noted he had three prior arrests but no record of being classified as an Emotionally Disturbed Person within NYPD files, as per the BBC report.

Police have urged people to avoid the area as the investigation continues.

FAQs

What happened at Grand Central Terminal?
A man attacked three people on the subway platform with a machete-like knife.

How many people were injured?
Three people were injured in the attack.