Machete Attack at NYC's Grand Central Station Leaves 3 Injured

Police fatally shoot suspect after he refused to drop weapon during chaotic incident

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:28am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a machete blade against a pitch-black background, capturing the stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic of the crime scene without depicting any violence.The chilling aftermath of a random machete attack in the heart of New York City exposes the fragility of public safety and the complex interplay between individual crises and community well-being.NYC Today

A man wielding a machete launched a random attack at New York City's iconic Grand Central Station, injuring three people before being fatally shot by police. The suspect, identified as Anthony Griffin, was behaving erratically and claimed to be 'Lucifer' prior to the attack. The police attempted to de-escalate the situation, but were forced to open fire when Griffin advanced with the knife.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the growing concern over random acts of violence in urban areas and the complex intersection of mental health, public safety, and emergency response. It prompts discussions about prevention, security measures, and the need for enhanced mental health support systems in densely populated public spaces.

The details

The victims, aged 65, 70, and 84, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The police response was swift, but the psychological impact on witnesses was significant, with commuters rushing in panic after the attack. Authorities are investigating the suspect's mental state and potential underlying issues that may have contributed to the incident.

  • The attack occurred on a Saturday morning at Grand Central Station.
  • Police fatally shot the suspect after he refused to drop the machete.

The players

Anthony Griffin

The 35-year-old suspect who launched the random machete attack at Grand Central Station.

Joseph Gulotta

The Chief of Transit for the New York Police Department, who stated that the attacks appeared to be unprovoked.

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York, who commended the swift police response to the incident.

Beau Lardner

A regular commuter at Grand Central Station who witnessed the chaotic aftermath of the attack.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The investigation into the suspect's mental state and potential underlying issues that may have contributed to the attack is ongoing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing random acts of violence in urban areas, including enhanced security measures, improved mental health support systems, and better emergency preparedness for public spaces.