Three people were stabbed Saturday morning at Grand Central Terminal’s subway platforms in Manhattan, New York City, before the suspect was shot and later died from his injuries, according to authorities. The incident occurred around 9:50 a.m. Eastern Time.

The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Anthony Griffin, was armed with a machete and reportedly behaving erratically, repeatedly stating he was “Lucifer,” police officials said. After slashing one victim on the 7 train platform, he moved to the nearby platforms serving the 4, 5, and 6 trains, where he injured two additional people. The attacks appeared to be random.

Police responded promptly after receiving emergency calls reporting the assault. Two detectives working overtime at the station observed Griffin and gave him multiple commands—officials said at least 20—to drop the weapon. Despite officers attempting to de-escalate the situation and offering assistance, Griffin refused to comply and advanced toward the officers with the blade extended. An officer then fired twice, striking Griffin, who was transported to Bellevue Hospital and pronounced dead.

The three victims—two men aged 84 and 65, and a 70-year-old woman—were hospitalized with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. One man sustained significant lacerations and an open skull fracture, while the others incurred head and shoulder wounds. Officials emphasized that all victims are expected to survive.

Anthony Griffin had a prior criminal record with multiple arrests, including previous menacing and slashing incidents involving sharp objects, according to law enforcement sources. New York Police Department (NYPD) officials described the attack as an unprovoked and random act.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised the swift action of the officers, noting their efforts to issue clear commands and attempt to calm the suspect before using lethal force to protect the public. Transit Chief Joseph Gulotta confirmed the randomness of the attacks and expressed concern over the incident.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority initially suspended service at Grand Central following the shooting, advising commuters to avoid the area, but trains resumed stopping there later in the afternoon. New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed gratitude toward the police officers involved and affirmed ongoing collaboration with the NYPD as the investigation continues.

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with some riders diving to the ground amid the panic. The attack underscores ongoing concerns about safety in one of the city’s busiest transit hubs. Authorities are continuing their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the event and Griffin’s background.