Bank of America VP Erin Piacenti killed in Times Square stabbing; suspect shot dead

Erin Piacenti, a 32-year-old vice president at Bank of America, was fatally stabbed in a random and unprovoked attack in New York City's Times Square on Monday, with police later shooting dead the knife-wielding suspect.

According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), Piacenti was attacked near West 41st Street and Seventh Avenue at around 4.30 pm. She was stabbed in the abdomen and taken to Bellevue Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Police identified the attacker as 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros of Queens. Authorities said Cisneros was carrying two knives when she randomly attacked Piacenti and a 68-year-old man. The man was also stabbed in the abdomen and was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

After the attack, police located Cisneros several blocks away and attempted to make her drop the knives. According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, officers spent around four minutes ordering her to surrender. Cisneros allegedly refused and threatened the officers.

Police then used Tasers to stop her, but the devices were ineffective. When Cisneros continued advancing towards officers while holding the knives, two officers opened fire. She was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital.

Authorities said the attack appeared to be random and unprovoked. Police also said Cisneros had a documented history of mental health-related encounters with the NYPD in 2018 and 2019, but had no prior arrests in New York City. The investigation remains ongoing.

Piacenti worked as a vice president in Bank of America's business selection and conflicts unit. She was based in Manhattan, with the bank's office at One Bryant Park located close to the attack site. She was also a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Fordham Law School.

Bank of America expressed shock and sadness over her death, describing Piacenti as a valued colleague and extending condolences to her family and loved ones.

The incident has renewed concerns over violence in one of New York City's busiest tourist areas. It was the second fatal stabbing reported in Times Square this year, according to police and local reports.