Family of new mum stabbed to death in Times Square in random attack issue heartbreaking statement
The family of Erin Piacenti have issued a statement after she was killed in a random stabbing attack in Times Square.
New York City police rushed to the scene and fatally shot a woman who allegedly stabbed two bystanders in Times Square. Authorities have described the incident as a ‘random and unprovoked’ attack which occurred on Monday afternoon (31 August).
One of the victims was 32-year-old Erin Piacenti, from Chester, New Jersey. The NYPD confirmed she died at a hospital after the stabbing.
Piacenti had returned to work for her first day back after maternity leave, according to a GoFundMe page.
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She and her husband welcomed a baby girl five months ago.
The statement stated that the Bank of America VP was ‘preparing to build a life’ with her husband and young daughter.
"Becoming a mother was Erin's lifelong ambition, and Madison gave her the greatest possible joy," the statement reads.
"Erin's life was defined not by the circumstances of her death, but instead by the way she lived. Erin was deeply devoted to her family and friends, exceptionally bright and accomplished, and was someone who brought warmth and energy to the people around her."
The statement continued: "To the people who knew and loved her, Erin was a thoughtful daughter and sister, a loyal friend, a devoted partner and companion in every aspect of Frank's life, and, most recently, an incredibly loving mother to Madison.
"Erin and Frank celebrated their second wedding anniversary this summer, had just returned from a family road trip upon her passing, and were preparing to build a life together with their new daughter. That life changed incomprehensibly in an instant."
The GoFundMe set up in Piacenti’s memory 'has been established to support Madison and her future', according to the fundraiser.
The statement continues: "It offers the many people who loved Erin, knew her, worked with her, or have simply been moved by her story a way to honor Erin by helping care for the daughter she loved more than anything.
"Funds raised will be dedicated to supporting Madison as she grows up surrounded by the family, friends, stories, and memories that will allow her to know just how remarkable her mother was."
The Bank of America also paid their respects, saying in a statement: "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague.
"She was a valued teammate who will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to her family and all of her loved ones."
Authorities said the other victim, a 68-year-old man from Rhode Island, was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries. He is said to be in a stable condition.
The alleged attacker, from Queens, New York City, was shot dead by police after she reportedly waved knives towards officers following the stabbings on Monday afternoon.
Police previously used tasers which were 'ineffective' and failed to prevent the suspect from heading towards them.
New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the attack as 'random and unprovoked'.
Topics: US News
Greg Harris