Bank of America vice president dies after stabbing attack in Times Square; attacker wounds another person and is shot by police

Erin Piacenti, a vice president at Bank of America, was stabbed to death in Times Square in New York in what authorities described as a random and unprovoked attack.

The incident occurred on Monday at around 4:24 p.m. local time, near the intersection of West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue in the heart of Manhattan.

New York City police, or the NYPD, said the victim was 32-year-old Erin Piacenti. Bank of America also confirmed the death of its employee, who, according to her LinkedIn profile, held the position of vice president in the Business Selection and Conflicts unit.

According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, there were no signs that the attack had been prompted by a previous conflict. When police arrived at the scene, they encountered 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros, who was holding two large knives and approached the officers.

Police opened fire on Cisneros, who was later pronounced dead. Commissioner Tisch said the 49-year-old had a documented history of mental health problems.

A 68-year-old man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was also injured in the attack. The NYPD said he had suffered stab wounds and was in stable condition.

Following the incident, traffic on several streets in Midtown Manhattan was temporarily halted, while emergency vehicles were dispatched to the area. Bank of America’s Manhattan office is located at One Bryant Park, very close to Times Square.

“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague. She was a valued member of the team and will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to her family and all her loved ones,” Bank of America said in a message emailed to Reuters on Tuesday.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to fully clarify the circumstances of the attack.