A woman was shot dead by police after stabbing two people in New York City’s Times Square area, according to U.S. media reports. One of the victims later died in hospital.

According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the 49-year-old woman from Queens pulled two kitchen knives from her bag and attacked a 68-year-old man who had just exited a subway station and was waiting to cross the street with his wife. She then injured a 32-year-old woman nearby.

Both victims were taken to hospital. The female victim later died, while the condition of the male victim was reported to be stable.

The attack took place near One Times Square, one of the most heavily monitored areas in the city, close to a police post, according to The Associated Press.

Witness footage showed several police officers surrounding the woman after the attack. Officers reportedly tried for several minutes to convince her to drop the knives before using a stun gun, which was unsuccessful.

Police said the woman then moved toward officers while holding the knives, prompting them to open fire.

New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the woman had a history of mental health issues, though further details were not immediately released.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city would provide support to the victims’ families.

The incident has raised renewed concerns over public safety in one of New York’s busiest tourist areas. (ILKHA)