A Bank of America executive was killed in a random stabbing attack in Times Square on Monday afternoon, with the suspect identified by authorities as Pamela Cisneros Lopez, who had a documented history of mental health issues.
Erin Piacenti, 32, of Chester, New Jersey, was stabbed in the stomach on West 41st Street in Midtown Manhattan. Officials said Lopez, 49, approached Piacenti and attacked her without apparent provocation. Piacenti had recently returned to work after maternity leave, having welcomed a newborn daughter named Madison with her husband, Frank.
A GoFundMe page established to support Piacenti's family has raised over $95,000. A statement on the fundraiser described Piacenti as a "deeply devoted" mother, "exceptionally bright and accomplished," and someone who "brought warmth and energy to the people around her." The family noted that Piacenti and her husband had recently celebrated their second wedding anniversary and were preparing for a life with their new daughter.
Suspect Apprehended
Lopez was apprehended by police after the attack on Piacenti and a second stabbing that injured 68-year-old Tak Kam, who was also stabbed in the stomach. Footage showed officers deploying a taser on Lopez, who was reportedly wielding two kitchen knives and refused to comply with commands.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that Lopez told officers during a standoff, "I'm not dropping anything, I would rather kill both of you." Tisch added that the incident occurred in a busy area with thousands of people present at any given time. Lopez had a "documented mental health history" with the department from incidents in 2018 and 2019, though she had not been arrested.
Suspect's History
Lopez's brother, Patrick Peralta, told the Daily Mail that his sister had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder about ten years prior, following a bout of postpartum depression. Peralta described Lopez as the youngest of six siblings, an HR employee, and a daily church-goer. He mentioned that she had struggled with postpartum depression for years and had attempted suicide in March 2019 by throwing herself onto train tracks.
However, Peralta stated that his sister had been taking medication for her bipolar disorder and had appeared to be doing better for the past six years. He recognized her in news footage of the stabbing and subsequently contacted the police. "I don't know what was going through her head, but I think she wanted to get shot," Peralta said. "She was never violent. I'm still numb."
Police Commissioner Tisch confirmed that there is no evidence to suggest the attack was an act of terrorism. The investigation is ongoing. 
