Mother of Times Square attacker poses a chilling question after police kill her daughter
Pamela Cisneros, 49, was killed by police on Monday after she allegedly stabbed two strangers in the center of New York’s Times Square. In the wake of the fatal episode, her mother has publicly questioned the way officers responded.
The frightening violence unfolded Monday at one of the nation’s most heavily visited tourist locations. Cisneros, a 49-year-old Queens woman, is alleged to have taken two large kitchen knives from a Target shopping bag before attacking two people chosen at random.
Erin Piacenti, 32, was among the victims and later died at the hospital. Tak Kam, 68, suffered stab injuries to his abdomen but survived after being rushed for medical care. The confrontation ultimately ended when officers fatally shot Cisneros.
Horrifying attack in the middle of Times Square
Following the disturbing events, Cisneros’ mother described her reaction to the police response. Speaking Spanish and asking not to be identified, she said she could not understand why deadly force had been used.
In an interview with Fox 5 News, she asked why, with so many officers present, they had not simply taken hold of her daughter by the arm.
Cisneros’ relatives said she had faced mental-health difficulties for a considerable period. Her brother stated that she lived with bipolar disorder and had undergone treatment. Authorities also had a documented record of earlier encounters connected to her mental health.
In 2018, police reportedly responded after Cisneros was discovered intoxicated and yelling on Lexington Avenue. Several months afterward, she tried to end her life by jumping in front of an E train in Queens.
Even with that background, her family said they had seen little to suggest that she might abruptly turn violent. They said that as recently as Saturday, Cisneros had told those close to her that she felt fine.
The deadly events in Times Square have left two families dealing with a devastating aftermath. Cisneros’ relatives are grieving her death as well. Our thoughts and prayers go to every family member and loved one affected by this tragic incident.
