A terrifying incident occurred in the heart of New York City when a man in a frenzy began randomly stabbing people at Penn Station, injuring six. Authorities quickly apprehended the suspect amid heightened security measures, as President Donald Trump was scheduled to attend the NBA Finals basketball game at Madison Square Garden located just above the station.
At approximately 7:00 p.m. local time on Sunday, 7 June, a man wielding a knife attacked people inside Penn Station, one of New York City's busiest transportation hubs, including the subway and train areas.
The New York City Fire Department and Mayor Sohraan Mamdani confirmed that six people were injured in the incident: one in critical condition, two with moderate injuries, and the rest with minor wounds. All victims were transported by rescue teams to Bellevue Hospital.
Following the attack, Amtrak police and New York law enforcement swiftly pursued and detained the suspect. Preliminary investigations reveal the attack was a random violent assault. Officials said the attacker was a homeless man with mental illness and emotional instability.
Local photographers reported that platforms 5 and 6, where the attack occurred, were scattered with gauze, medical gloves, and blood stains. Police placed barricades and yellow caution tape to secure the area, advising the public to avoid the vicinity due to heavy traffic and transit disruptions around the station.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the attack as a "violent and horrifying act," emphasizing that all New Yorkers deserve safety wherever they go, and authorities will not relent in ensuring that happens.
This shocking event happened as New York City was preparing to host two major sporting events: the NBA Finals and the FIFA World Cup.
Notably, Madison Square Garden, located above Penn Station, was set to host Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night local time, featuring the New York Knicks versus the San Antonio Spurs. President Donald Trump accepted an invitation from Knicks owner James Dolan to attend the game. Mayor Mamdani was also expected to attend.
Before the stabbing, New York authorities had already tightened security around the arena, including banning bags inside and canceling "watch party" gatherings outside the venue. This followed disturbances the previous week when some fans caused chaos, resulting in police officers being assaulted and 26 arrests.
In addition to the NBA Finals, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, adjacent to New York, was scheduled to host the opening group stage match of the FIFA World Cup on the coming Saturday. Officials have deployed heightened security across all strategic points to reassure tourists and sports fans worldwide.
. BBC/ AFP