Knife Attack on Cops Near Times Square Investigated as Possible Terror Incident: Sources

Two NYPD officers were attacked on New Year’s Eve in a brazen knife attack just outside the city’s annual Times Square celebrations, senior law enforcement sources said.

Multiple law enforcement officials said they are looking into whether the man who allegedly attacked the officers had previously posted what they called jihadist writings online and traveled to New York City to target police.

The attack occurred around 10 p.m. on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue between 51st and 52nd streets, roughly one block outside the Times Square perimeter set up for the ball drop festivities.

Senior police officials said the preliminary investigation suggests a man swung a large knife, possibly a machete, at two officers on the busy street. They were both struck with the weapon, but not seriously injured.

At least one officer fired upon the suspect, who sources said is originally from Wells, Maine, striking him in the shoulder. The sources said his injuries are also non-life-threatening. Investigators said preliminary review shows the man has no previous arrests but he was known to federal and local law enforcement because of what previous online postings, the sources added.

The man appears to be a lone actor in the plot, but officials stressed the investigation was still in its preliminary stages.

The knife attack and gunfire startled a long line of crowds waiting to join the NYE celebrations. A local pizza shop employee said panicked revelers fled amid the chaos.

Police have closed down the immediate area for their investigation. The nearby New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square was not impacted.