Six people were taken to hospital following a stabbing incident at Pennsylvania Station in New York City on Sunday evening, authorities said.
According to emergency officials, at least five of the victims suffered stab wounds, while one person sustained serious injuries. It remains unclear why the sixth individual was transported to the hospital.
The attack occurred around 7 p.m., prompting a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services.
Officials said officers from the Amtrak Police Department quickly launched a search operation and arrested a suspect shortly after the incident.
Investigators also recovered a knife believed to have been used in the attack.
Authorities temporarily advised members of the public to avoid the area due to expected traffic congestion, road closures and disruptions to public transportation services.
Reacting to the incident, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed sympathy for the victims and praised emergency responders for their rapid intervention.
“The alleged perpetrator is in custody following a swift response from the Amtrak Police Department. My heart is with everyone who was injured, their loved ones, and all those shaken by this unacceptable violence. I’m wishing each of the victims a full and speedy recovery,” he said.
Mamdani also thanked first responders and noted that rail services had not been affected by the attack.
Police identified the suspect as 51-year-old Hector DeLeon. According to law enforcement sources, he is believed to be emotionally disturbed, and investigators have found no evidence linking the incident to terrorism.
Witnesses described a dramatic arrest, with video footage showing several officers restraining the suspect at the scene. One bystander said police used pepper spray before taking him into custody.
Another witness recalled seeing the suspect behaving erratically before the attack.
Preliminary findings suggest the stabbing may have been a random act of violence. Senior police officials also stated that investigators have found no indication of any terror-related motive.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
