A woman has been arrested following a shocking stabbing inside the flagship Macy’s store at Herald Square in New York City, police confirmed. The violent incident unfolded Thursday afternoon, leaving a visiting tourist hospitalized and raising serious safety concerns at one of Manhattan’s busiest retail landmarks.
The suspect, identified as Kerri Aherne, is now facing multiple felony charges as the investigation continues.
What Happened
According to the New York Police Department, the attack occurred just before 3 p.m. on Thursday inside a seventh-floor restroom at Macy’s Herald Square. Police say the victim, a woman visiting Manhattan from California, was changing her infant daughter’s diaper when she was suddenly attacked from behind.
Authorities allege that Kerri Aherne, 43, of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, stabbed the woman multiple times in the back and arm. The infant was not injured during the assault.
The victim’s husband, who was nearby, reportedly intervened, disarmed Aherne, and restrained her until officers arrived.
Who Is the Suspect?
Police identified the suspect as Kerri Aherne, a 43-year-old woman from Massachusetts. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office revealed that Aherne has a prior arrest history in Massachusetts, including a case involving alleged threats against Sen. Elizabeth Warren.
Authorities also said Aherne told police she has previously been hospitalized for psychiatric issues. Investigators are continuing to review her background as part of the case.
Victim’s Condition and Case Details
The victim was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where she was reported to be in stable condition. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) confirmed that both the victim and her husband are employed by the department.
Police said the attack appears to have been unprovoked, and there is currently no indication that the victim was targeted for any specific reason.
Charges Filed
Kerri Aherne has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including:
- Attempted murder
- Two counts of assault
- Criminal possession of a weapon
- Endangering the welfare of a child
She appeared in court on Friday and was ordered held without bail, according to prosecutors.
Public and Official Reactions
The incident has sparked concern among shoppers and city residents due to its location inside a major tourist destination. Macy’s Herald Square is one of the most visited department stores in the world.
In a statement, a Macy’s spokesperson said:
“We are deeply saddened about the incident that took place today as the safety of our customers and colleagues is our top priority. We kindly defer any further questions to the local authorities.”
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the investigation remains active.
What Happens Next
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office will continue prosecuting the case as detectives work to determine a motive and assess any additional safety concerns. Police have not released further details but confirmed the matter is under ongoing investigation.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the NYPD.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
