A Penn Station stabbing injured five people as New York prepared for a high security NBA Finals night.
Five people were injured Sunday evening in a stabbing attack inside New York City’s Penn Station, authorities said, sending panic through one of the nation’s busiest transit hubs.
The attack happened shortly after 7 p.m. on the NJ Transit concourse, according to local reports citing fire and police officials. The Fire Department of New York said one person suffered serious injuries, two had moderate injuries, and two others had minor injuries.
All five victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital, according to ABC7 New York. A suspect was taken into custody by Amtrak police after the attack. ABC7 New York
Police Describe Attack as Random
Law enforcement sources told CBS News New York that the stabbing appeared to be a random act of violence. The suspect was arrested at the scene by Amtrak police, and a knife was recovered, according to multiple reports.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name or full details about possible charges. The Associated Press reported that six people were hurt in the broader incident, including a sixth person taken to another hospital, though the main FDNY injury count listed five stabbing victims. The Associated Press
People reported that the five stabbing victims were in stable condition after being transported to Bellevue Hospital. People
The investigation remains active, and officials have not released a confirmed motive.
Attack Happened Beneath Madison Square Garden
Penn Station sits directly below Madison Square Garden, where the New York Knicks are set to play the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night.
The timing added to security concerns because President Donald Trump is expected to attend the game. New York officials had already announced tighter security measures around Madison Square Garden before the stabbing.
The Guardian reported that officials canceled a planned outdoor watch party and announced a no bag policy because of Trump’s planned attendance. Fans were also told to expect airport style screening and major traffic delays near the arena. The Guardian
Mayor Zohran Mamdani is also expected to attend the game, according to reports.
Officials Urge People to Avoid the Area
New York’s emergency notification system warned people to avoid the area after the stabbing. Officials said commuters should expect traffic delays, road closures, mass transit disruptions, and a heavy emergency response near Penn Station.
The station serves Amtrak, NJ Transit, Long Island Rail Road, and subway riders, making it one of the busiest transportation points in the country.
Even a short emergency at Penn Station can ripple through the region’s commute. Sunday’s attack also came as New York prepared for major sports crowds and added security.
Authorities have not said whether the stabbing will change plans for Monday’s NBA Finals security operation.
Public Safety Concerns Grow Before Major Event
The stabbing has renewed public concern about violence in transit hubs, especially as the city prepares for a high profile event above the station.
For commuters, the attack turned an ordinary Sunday evening into a frightening scene. For city officials, it created another security challenge hours before thousands of fans and national figures are expected around Madison Square Garden.
Police and federal security partners are already expected to maintain a large presence around the arena for the Knicks game and Trump’s visit.
For now, the confirmed facts are that five people were stabbed, the victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital, and a suspect is in custody. Investigators are still working to determine why the attack happened.