Five hurt in stabbing at New York’s Penn Station, suspect held; terror link ruled out

New York City’s Penn Station witnessed a violent incident on Sunday evening when a stabbing attack left at least five people injured, prompting a swift response from law enforcement agencies. Authorities said a suspect was taken into custody at the scene shortly after the attack.

The incident unfolded around 7 pm at one of the city’s busiest transit hubs. While investigators continue to piece together the circumstances behind the attack, police sources told CBS News that there is currently no indication of terrorism and that preliminary findings suggest the violence was random in nature.

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According to CBS News, citing Amtrak, at least one of the victims sustained serious injuries. Emergency personnel rushed to the station following reports of multiple stabbings, while officers moved quickly to secure the area and detain the alleged attacker.

What authorities have said about the Penn Station stabbing

Amtrak confirmed that a suspect was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Police sources quoted by CBS News described the individual as an emotionally disturbed person and said investigators had found no terror-related connection.

A law enforcement source familiar with the investigation told the broadcaster that early information points to a random act of violence. Another senior NYPD source said the incident had “no terror nexus.”

Traffic and transit disruptions reported

Following the stabbing, authorities urged people to stay away from the area as emergency operations continued. Police warned of traffic congestion, road closures and disruptions to public transport services around Penn Station.

The station, located in the heart of Manhattan, is among the busiest transportation hubs in the United States, serving thousands of commuters and travellers every day.

New York City Council Speaker reacts

Reacting to reports of the attack, New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin said she was deeply concerned by the incident and thanked emergency responders for their quick action.

In a post on X, Menin said first responders and law enforcement personnel had acted swiftly to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody.

“We are in touch with the NYPD and will continue to monitor the situation closely as we await additional information,” she said.

The investigation remains ongoing.