A routine shopping trip turned into a terrifying ordeal on Thursday afternoon when a tourist from California was stabbed inside Macy’s Herald Square — one of Manhattan’s busiest retail hubs. NY Buzz has been following this developing story closely, as the incident has raised widespread concern about safety in one of New York City’s most visited locations.
A Routine Moment Turns Violent
According to the NYPD, the 38-year-old tourist was inside the Macy’s bathroom, changing her baby’s diaper, when the unthinkable happened. Police said the attack was completely unprovoked.
A homeless woman, identified as 43-year-old Kerri Aherne, originally from Massachusetts, allegedly approached the victim and stabbed her twice in the back. The victim also suffered a cut on her arm during the assault.
The sudden violence inside a family restroom shocked shoppers and staff, many of whom were unaware of what was unfolding behind closed doors.
Fast Police Response and Arrest
Officers responded around 1:15 p.m. and quickly rushed the victim to the hospital. She sustained multiple stab wounds, but authorities confirmed she is expected to recover.
Aherne was arrested on-site and is now facing serious charges, including:
- Attempted murder
- Assault
- Criminal possession of a weapon
Her motive remains unclear, but investigators are treating it as an unprovoked attack.
Macy’s Responds: “Safety Is Our Top Priority”
In a statement shared after the incident, 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.”
Given Macy’s Herald Square is not only a major tourist draw but a historic retail landmark, the stabbing has raised pressing new concerns about public safety and the rise in random attacks across Manhattan.
NYPD Seeks Additional Information
Detectives continue to investigate the incident, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward. The NYPD encourages the public to use any of the following Crime Stoppers options:
- Call: 1-800-577-TIPS (8477)
- Online: crimestoppers.nypdonline.org
- Mobile App: NYPD Crime Stoppers
- Text: 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577
- Spanish: 1-888-57-PISTA (74782)
A Story That Grips NYC
Incidents like this shake both locals and visitors, raising questions about safety even in iconic public spaces. As NY Buzz continues monitoring updates, this case underscores the challenges New York faces in balancing tourism, retail traffic, and public safety.
For now, New Yorkers and travelers alike are calling for increased vigilance — and hoping such shocking moments remain rare.