A 44-year-old man was shot dead by police after he allegedly attacked three people with a machete at Grand Central Station in New York earlier today. Authorities said the assault appeared to be unprovoked and took place on the 4, 5, and 6 subway platforms around 9:50 am.
According to police, the attacker targeted elderly commuters. An 85-year-old man suffered a serious head injury, a 65-year-old man sustained cuts to his head, and a 70-year-old woman was slashed on the shoulder. All three victims were rushed to the hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
Suspect ignored repeated police warnings
Police identified the suspect as Anthony Griffin. Officials said he was armed with a machete and allegedly shouted “Lucifer” during the attack.
When two New York City Police Department (NYPD) detectives confronted him, they repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the suspect ignored at least 20 commands and refused to comply.
Officers also attempted to calm the situation and offered help, telling him they would get assistance. However, Griffin reportedly moved toward them with the weapon still raised, prompting officers to open fire.
Mayor confirms incident, probe underway
Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he had been briefed on the incident and confirmed that the suspect was shot after refusing to drop the machete. He later died from his injuries.
The Mayor praised the police response, saying it prevented further harm. He added that an internal investigation has been launched, and body camera footage will be released in line with standard procedure for police shootings.
“The NYPD is conducting an internal investigation and will release body-worn camera footage, as it does in all incidents involving the discharge of an officer’s firearm”, Mamdani added.
I have been briefed on an incident that occurred at Grand Central Station this morning. Reports indicate a man slashed three people on the platform with a machete. Officers shot the man when he did not drop the machete. He has since been pronounced dead.
I’m grateful to the NYPD…
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) April 11, 2026