A stabbing attack that injured six people at New York Penn Station has raised fresh security concerns as the transit hub prepares to handle tens of thousands of FIFA World Cup fans traveling to New Jersey this month.
Six people were injured in a stabbing attack inside New York City’s Penn Station on Sunday evening, prompting a major emergency response at one of the nation’s busiest transportation hubs and a key gateway for visitors expected to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium.
Authorities said the attack occurred shortly after 7 p.m. on the NJ Transit concourse inside Penn Station. Amtrak Police officers quickly took the suspect into custody after multiple people were stabbed in the crowded terminal.
Key Points
• Six people were stabbed inside Penn Station Sunday evening
• Suspect described as a homeless, emotionally disturbed person is in custody
• Penn Station is expected to handle tens of thousands of World Cup travelers heading to New Jersey matches
Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he had been briefed on what he described as a “horrific stabbing” and confirmed that six victims were injured during the attack.
“Based on the information available right now, six people were stabbed and the alleged perpetrator is in custody following a swift response from the Amtrak Police Department,” Mamdani said in a statement posted on social media.
Victims transported to hospital
Officials said all six victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment. One person suffered serious injuries, two sustained moderate wounds and two others suffered minor injuries, according to authorities. All of the victims are expected to survive.
Police identified the suspect as a homeless, emotionally disturbed individual known to frequent Penn Station. Investigators have not released additional details regarding a possible motive.
“My heart is with everyone who was injured, their loved ones, and all those shaken by this unacceptable violence,” Mamdani said. “I’m wishing each of the victims a full and speedy recovery.”
Critical transit hub for World Cup travel
The attack comes just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins June 11 and includes eight major matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, including a semifinal and the championship match.
Transit officials expect approximately 40,000 ticket holders per match to travel from New York Penn Station through Secaucus Junction on special NJ Transit rail service to MetLife Stadium. More than 80,000 spectators are expected to attend each match.
The regional tournament is projected to attract more than one million visitors, with Penn Station serving as one of the primary transportation hubs connecting New York City travelers to World Cup events in New Jersey.
Massive security presence already in place
The violence unfolded on the eve of Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden, located directly above Penn Station. President Donald Trump attended the game, resulting in an extensive deployment of Secret Service agents, NYPD officers and other federal law enforcement personnel throughout the area.
Mamdani praised the response by transit police and emergency personnel.
“I’m grateful to the Amtrak Police Department and the first responders who acted quickly to apprehend the suspect and provide emergency care,” the mayor said.
Today, the entire area is under heightened security and screening as President Trump is still expected to be on site for game 3 of the Knicks-Spurs NBA Finals game at Madison Square Garden.
Authorities said there were no disruptions to Amtrak service following the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.