A deadly New York Times Square stabbing ended with police fatally shooting the suspect after officers’ attempts to stop her with Tasers failed.
New details about the confrontation help explain why the Tasers may not have incapacitated 49-year-old Pamela Cisneros. Her family, meanwhile, is questioning how the police response unfolded.
Police secured the Times Square scene after the stabbing attack that left one victim dead and another injured. The confrontation ended with officers shooting Pamela Cisneros after attempts to stop her with Tasers failed. | Source: Getty Images
According to the New York Post, Pamela attacked two people near West 41st Street and Seventh Avenue on Monday, August 31, 2026, killing one. Video of the confrontation showed her holding two knives as officers ordered her to drop them.
Retired NYPD detective and Taser expert Artur Sadowski told the Post that several factors may have prevented the devices from working as intended. Tasers require both probes to make effective contact to complete an electrical circuit and temporarily disrupt muscle control.
Police later displayed an image of knives recovered at the scene as investigators detailed the deadly encounter. The weapons became a key part of the investigation into the attack and the officers’ response. | Source: Getty Images
Artur said Pamela’s movements, body fat, and purse may have interfered with that process. One probe struck the purse wrapped around her body, while another appeared to hit her stomach.