NEW YORK: A Bank of America vice-president was killed in a stabbing incident in New York City’s busy Times Square, with authorities describing the attack as random and unprovoked.
The victim was identified by the New York Police Department as 32-year-old Erin Piacenti, who worked as a vice-president in the bank’s Business Selection and Conflicts unit.
Bank of America confirmed the death of one of its employees, expressing shock and deep sadness over the incident and extending condolences to her family and loved ones.
Piacenti had joined the bank around 18 months ago, according to an internal message from Matthew Koder, the company’s president of global corporate and investment banking. He described her as a valued colleague and friend.
The stabbing occurred near West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue, one of Manhattan’s busiest areas. Emergency vehicles flooded the scene as police responded to the incident.
Police shoot suspect
According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, officers encountered 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros at the scene, allegedly carrying two large knives and advancing towards police.
Officers used a stun gun but were unable to get her to drop the weapons. Police subsequently shot Cisneros, who was later pronounced dead.
Tisch said Cisneros had a documented history of mental health issues and described the attack as apparently random.
A 68-year-old man was also injured in the stabbing and was taken for treatment. His condition was reported as stable.
Bank security review underway
Bank of America said its security teams were cooperating with the police investigation and reviewing safety measures for its offices and employees.
The bank’s Manhattan headquarters at One Bryant Park is located close to Times Square. Piacenti was a graduate of Fordham Law School, where she earned her law degree in 2021. The university expressed grief over the death of its former student.
The incident has renewed concerns over public safety in one of New York City’s most heavily visited and crowded locations.
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