Knifeman calling himself ‘Lucifer’ slashes three at NYC’s Grand Central
Knife Attack at Grand Central Station Leaves Three Injured
A man wielding a machete launched a random assault on three individuals at New York City’s Grand Central station before being shot dead by law enforcement. The incident disrupted train operations at the nation’s largest rail hub, prompting emergency measures. The attacker, identified as Anthony Griffin, 44, targeted two men and a woman, inflicting serious injuries during the attack.
Victims Suffered Severe Injuries
According to NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the suspect slashed an 84-year-old man and a 65-year-old man on the platform, causing deep cuts to their heads and faces. The 70-year-old woman sustained injuries to her shoulder. Tisch noted that the assailant had ignored repeated commands to lower the weapon, claiming to be “Lucifer” as he acted.
“Innocent people were attacked in a senseless act of violence,” stated New York Governor Kathy Hochul, addressing the incident. She emphasized the randomness of the attack and its impact on public safety.
The assault began when Griffin entered the subway system at Vernon Boulevard–Jackson Avenue in Queens. He boarded the 7 train and attacked one person on the platform. After moving upstairs, he struck two more individuals on another platform. Police reported that the suspect was seen advancing toward officers with the blade raised, despite multiple warnings.
Officers Responded Quickly to the Threat
Two transit officers, alerted at 09:40 EDT (13:40 GMT), described the individual as armed with a large knife and acting unpredictably. “He was repeatedly stating that he was Lucifer,” said Tisch. After refusing to comply with at least 20 demands to drop the weapon, the officer fired, wounding Griffin twice. Despite efforts to save his life, the suspect was later declared dead at Bellevue Hospital.
All three victims were hospitalized, though their injuries were not considered life-threatening. Authorities confirmed no link to terrorist activity was found. Griffin had a history of prior arrests but no record of emotionally disturbed behavior with the NYPD.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani commended police for their swift reaction, stating that body camera footage of the event would be made public. The city remains under investigation as officials work to determine the full extent of the attack’s causes.
