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Violent attack at Grand Central Station leaves suspect dead
A 44-year-old man armed with a machete randomly assaulted three passengers at New York City's Grand Central Station on Saturday before police fatally shot him, authorities confirmed.
Victims suffer severe injuries in unprovoked assault
Anthony Griffin, identified as the attacker, slashed an 84-year-old man and a 65-year-old man in the head and face, while a 70-year-old woman sustained shoulder cuts on a subway platform. The 84-year-old victim suffered deep lacerations, and the 65-year-old endured an open skull fracture, according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Police respond after suspect ignores repeated warnings
Transit officers arrived at the scene at 9:40 a.m. local time (13:40 GMT) after reports of the attack. Griffin, holding a machete, ignored over 20 commands to drop the weapon and allegedly declared, "I am Lucifer," Tisch stated.
When the suspect advanced toward officers with the blade raised, one officer fired two shots. Despite immediate medical aid, Griffin was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital.
No terrorism link found; investigation ongoing
Authorities ruled out terrorism as a motive but disclosed Griffin had three prior arrests, though no history of Emotionally Disturbed Person (EDP) reports with the NYPD. All three victims were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Officials react as transit disruptions continue
New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the "senseless act of violence," while Mayor Zohran Mamdani commended officers for their swift response. Police body camera footage of the incident will be released, officials confirmed.
Trains were diverted from Grand Central Station, the busiest U.S. rail hub, as investigators secured the area. Residents were advised to avoid the vicinity during the probe.
Timeline of the attack
Griffin entered the subway system at Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue in Queens, boarding the 7 train to Grand Central-42 Street. He first attacked a victim on the platform, then moved upstairs to assault two others before police intervened.
