Updated: September 3, 2026
Times Square, New York City – Erin Piacenti, a 32-year-old Bank of America vice president from Chester, New Jersey, died after being stabbed during an apparently random knife attack in Times Square, New York City, on August 31, 2026.
Piacenti was attacked near West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue during the afternoon, according to accounts of the incident. She suffered a stab wound to the abdomen and was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
New York City police described the attack as unprovoked and random.
The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros of Queens, was also accused of stabbing an older man shortly before the fatal attack. The man, reported to be in his late 60s, survived his injuries.
Police said Cisneros was confronted by officers after the attacks. She was fatally shot during the encounter after allegedly moving toward officers with knives.
Piacenti Had Just Returned From Maternity Leave
Piacenti’s death came as she was beginning a new chapter in her professional and family life. She had reportedly returned to work after five months of maternity leave, following the birth of her daughter, Madison.
She and her husband, Frank Piacenti, had also recently marked their second wedding anniversary on August 10.
The circumstances have brought particular attention to the sudden loss of a young mother whose family life and professional career were both developing. A GoFundMe campaign organized to support Madison’s future has attracted significant financial support from people seeking to help the family.
Accomplished Legal and Banking Career
Piacenti built an accomplished academic and professional record.
She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2016 with a degree in political science before earning her law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 2021, where she graduated magna cum laude.
Her professional career included work at Davis Polk & Wardwell before she joined Bank of America. At the time of her death, she was serving as Vice President of Business Selection and Conflicts in New York.
Colleagues and members of her academic community remembered her as intelligent, warm and accomplished, while those closest to her described her deep commitment to her husband, daughter and family.
Bank of America and Fordham Law expressed condolences following her death.
Investigation Into Times Square Stabbing
The fatal stabbing occurred in one of New York City’s busiest public areas, where large numbers of residents, commuters and visitors gather each day. The incident prompted a police response and ended with the suspect’s death during the confrontation with officers.
Authorities are continuing to establish the full sequence of events surrounding the attacks.
Piacenti’s death has left her husband, infant daughter, family, friends and colleagues mourning a life cut short at 32.
This report distinguishes confirmed information from details attributed to preliminary accounts. Information about the investigation, the surviving victim and the circumstances surrounding the police shooting should be updated as authorities release additional findings.