A violent confrontation occurred at Grand Central Station on Saturday, April 11, 2026, culminating in a fatal police shooting. Authorities reported that 44-year-old Anthony Griffin attacked several individuals with a machete on a platform within the busy transit hub.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated the attack began around 9:40 a.m. Griffin reportedly slashed three people before police officers arrived on the scene. The commissioner noted that Griffin, exhibiting erratic behavior and identifying himself as Lucifer, ignored multiple commands to disarm.

Police Intervention and Fatal Shooting

Despite officers' attempts to de-escalate and offer aid, Griffin advanced toward them brandishing the machete. An officer then discharged their firearm, hitting Griffin twice. He was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Commissioner Tisch revealed that Griffin had three prior unsealed arrests but no documented history with the NYPD. The incident underscores the difficulties law enforcement faces with individuals in mental health crises and the importance of de-escalation training and mental health support.

Victim Injuries and Official Response

The attack left three individuals with serious injuries. An 84-year-old man sustained significant lacerations to his head and face on the 7 train platform. A 65-year-old man suffered similar injuries, including an open skull fracture, on the 456 platform.

A third victim received a laceration to the shoulder, also on the 456 platform. All three were taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment, and their injuries were not considered life-threatening at the time of the report. Both Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Gov. Kathy Hochul were briefed on the incident and commended the police response.

Investigation and Public Safety Concerns

Mayor Mamdani confirmed that the NYPD is conducting an internal investigation and will release body-worn camera footage, a standard protocol for police-involved shootings. Governor Hochul called the event a 'horrific incident' and assured that her office is cooperating closely with law enforcement.

The event has brought public safety and the potential links between mental health crises and violence to the forefront. These high-stress situations emphasize the paramount importance of public safety and the well-being of victims and officers alike.