A woman accused of stabbing two people near New York City’s Times Square on Monday was shot by police and later died at a hospital, according to four officials briefed on the incident who were cited by NBC News.
One of the alleged victims, a woman, also died at the hospital, while the second victim, a man, was in critical condition. The woman was reportedly armed with at least one knife, and police later recovered two knives from the scene.
The confrontation occurred near West 43rd Street and Seventh Avenue, a heavily visited area close to Times Square. Witnesses described scenes of panic after gunfire erupted, with large crowds fleeing the area.
Police initially used Tasers against the woman, but sources said she removed the devices and continued moving toward officers. Police then opened fire, striking her.
Several loud pops were heard during the confrontation, and video circulating on social media appears to show the woman surrounded by officers before gunshots and a stun gun can be heard. She then falls to the ground.
Authorities are investigating the suspect’s mental health history. Her motive remains unknown, although sources said the stabbings appear to have been random.
The incident is not believed to be terror-related, according to officials. Police urged the public to avoid the area while the investigation was underway.