Police Fatally Shoot Machete-Wielding Attacker After Subway Stabbing Spree in New York
In a violent incident that unfolded at one of New York City's busiest transit hubs, police officers shot and killed a man who had randomly attacked three individuals with a machete at the Grand Central subway station on Saturday morning. The assailant, identified as Anthony Griffin, 44, was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital after being shot twice by responding officers.
Chaos Erupts at Grand Central Station
Authorities reported that the emergency call came in at 9:40 a.m. on April 11, 2026, detailing an assault at the 42nd Street-Grand Central station. Upon arrival, officers encountered Griffin behaving erratically and claiming to be "Lucifer," according to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Despite being ordered to drop his weapon approximately 20 times, Griffin refused to comply and advanced toward the officers with the machete extended, prompting the fatal shots.
Commissioner Tisch emphasized that the officers attempted to de-escalate the situation but were forced to take decisive action to protect public safety. "Our officers were confronted with an armed individual who had already injured multiple people and was continuing to pose a threat," she stated during a news conference.
Victims Sustain Non-Life-Threatening Injuries
The three victims of the stabbing attacks included an 84-year-old male, a 65-year-old male, and a 70-year-old female. Their injuries, while serious, were not considered life-threatening. Specific details revealed:
- One man suffered significant lacerations to the head and face.
- The other male victim had similar injuries along with an open skull fracture.
- The female victim sustained a laceration to the shoulder.
Commissioner Tisch explained that Griffin initially slashed one person on a platform before moving upstairs to attack the other victims on another platform. Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta noted that the attacks appeared to be random acts, with no clear motive established at this time.
Suspect's Background and Investigation Details
Anthony Griffin had three prior unsealed arrests, according to police records. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed gratitude on social media, stating, "I'm grateful to our brave officers who acted quickly to stop the suspect. We're working closely with the NYPD as the investigation unfolds."
The police department had urged travelers to avoid the area due to the investigation, leading to delays and heavy traffic. The Metropolitan Transit Authority confirmed that some subway trains were bypassing the station temporarily. Witness Beau Lardner, 34, described hearing loud bangs and seeing a "wall of people" rushing to escape, highlighting the panic that ensued during the chaotic scene.
This report includes contributions from Associated Press writers in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Des Moines, Iowa, providing comprehensive coverage of the incident.
