Times Square Stabbing: Bank of America Executive Killed, Suspect Shot Dead by NYPD
Published: September 1, 2026
A Bank of America executive was fatally stabbed in an apparently random attack in Times Square, and the suspected attacker was later shot and killed by NYPD officers after refusing to drop two knives and advancing toward police. The incident unfolded in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, August 31, 2026, near West 43rd Street and Seventh Avenue.
What happened?
According to New York City police:
Erin Piacenti, 32, a vice president at Bank of America from Chester, New Jersey, was stabbed in the abdomen while walking through Times Square.
A 68-year-old man was also stabbed moments earlier in what police described as a random, unprovoked attack.
Officers responded within minutes after multiple 911 calls and confronted the suspect nearby.
Victim identified as Bank of America executive
Authorities identified the victim as Erin Piacenti, who served as a Vice President of Business Selections and Conflicts at Bank of America.
Bank of America released a statement expressing shock and condolences:
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague. She was a valued teammate who will be greatly missed.”
Piacenti was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital after the stabbing.
Suspect identified after police shooting
Police identified the suspect as Pamela Cisneros, 49, of Woodside, Queens.
Investigators say Cisneros:
Was carrying two knives inside a red shopping bag.
Allegedly stabbed the first victim near a subway entrance.
Then walked north on Seventh Avenue before attacking Piacenti.
Why did NYPD open fire?
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said officers spent approximately four minutes trying to de-escalate the situation.
Officials said officers:
Ordered the suspect to drop her knives repeatedly.
Used Tasers, which briefly struck her but did not stop her.
Opened fire after she allegedly advanced toward officers while holding both knives.
The suspect was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Police say mental health played a role
Authorities said Cisneros had a history of mental health interactions with the NYPD but no known criminal record.
Commissioner Tisch described the incident as an apparent psychotic break, though investigators continue to examine the circumstances.
Mayor Mamdani orders review
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani praised officers for stopping the attack while also announcing:
An internal NYPD investigation into the shooting.
The planned release of body-worn camera footage.
Continued support for the surviving victim and Piacenti's family.
Investigation continues
The entire sequence—from the first stabbing to the fatal police shooting—lasted about five minutes, according to investigators.
Police are reviewing:
Officer body-camera footage.
Witness videos.
Surveillance footage from Times Square.
The suspect's mental health history and actions before the attack.
Key Facts at a Glance
Date August 31, 2026 | Location Times Square, NYC |
Victim killed Erin Piacenti, 32 | Second victim 68-year-old man (stable) |
Suspect Pamela Cisneros, 49 | Police response Tasers used, then officers opened fire |
Status Suspect died at Bellevue Hospital | Investigation Body-camera footage to be released |
This remains an active investigation, and officials say additional details may be released as evidence is reviewed
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