Six people were wounded in a stabbing at New York's Penn Station on Sunday; a suspect was detained and authorities say all victims are expected to survive, though one was reported in serious condition. The attack occurred near tracks 5 and 6, where police cordoned off the area. Officials described the suspect as 'an emotionally disturbed homeless person,' and investigators have not released a motive. The incident comes days before the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden and World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium, prompting heightened security and public advisories to avoid the area.
Six Injured in Penn Station Stabbing as City Ramps Up Security Ahead of NBA Finals and World Cup
NYPD police officers are seen outside Penn Station in New York on June 7, 2026, after a stabbing attack inside the transit center (John Lamparski)(John Lamparski/AFP/AFP)
Six people were wounded on Sunday in a stabbing at New York's Penn Station, authorities said. A suspect has been detained and the victims were taken to hospital; one was reported in serious condition while officials say all are expected to survive. The attack occurred near tracks 5 and 6, where police cordoned off the area after first responders provided emergency care.
The New York Fire Department initially reported five injured, but Mayor Zohran Mamdani later wrote on X that 'based on the information available right now, six people were stabbed and the alleged perpetrator is in custody.' New York City Comptroller Mark Levine said the suspect is 'said to be an emotionally disturbed homeless person.' Investigators have not yet released a motive.
A photographer at the scene reported seeing gauze, medical gloves and blood on the floor near the affected tracks. Governor Kathy Hochul described the attack as 'an act of horrific violence' and said officials will continue their efforts to keep New Yorkers safe.
Events, Security and Local Impact
The incident occurred at one of the nation’s busiest rail and subway hubs as the city prepares for two major sporting events: Madison Square Garden, directly above Penn Station, will host games three and four of the NBA Finals, and MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will stage World Cup matches. US President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend Monday's NBA game after accepting an invitation from Knicks owner James Dolan.
Authorities have increased security across the city in advance of both events. New York’s official emergency notification system advised people to avoid the area and 'expect traffic delays, road closures, mass transit disruptions & emergency personnel near Penn Station.' Officials also canceled an outdoor watch party outside Madison Square Garden as a precaution.
Earlier Crowd Incidents
On Friday, thousands gathered for a watch party near the arena; police said an officer was assaulted and 26 people were arrested after some fans became rowdy. City officials emphasized that investigations into the stabbing and related incidents are ongoing and urged the public to monitor official channels for updates.
Key Facts: Six people wounded; suspect in custody; one person in serious condition; all victims expected to survive. Police and investigators continue to work at the scene.
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