United States: At least eight dead in NYC ramming attack Oct. 31 /update 3

Event

Reports say the suspect involved in the car ramming attack in Lower Manhattan (NYC) on Tuesday, October 31, is an Uzbek national and a resident of Paterson, New Jersey. As of Tuesday evening, the suspect remains in critical condition at a local hospital. Reports say the suspect left a note in the vehicle pledging allegiance to the Islamic State (IS).

According to the mayor of New York City, at least eight people have died as a result of the incident and nearly a dozen more were wounded. Officials said that an increased police presence will be deployed throughout the city. Emergency personnel are likely to remain at the scene near the intersection of Chambers Street and West Street overnight. Roads around the incident remain closed. An investigation into the incident is ongoing and details are still emerging.

Context

Reports indicate that the incident occurred at 15:05 on a popular bike path on Houston Street, near the World Trade Center. The vehicle reportedly drove down the path before colliding with a school bus on Chambers Street. According to officials, the driver exited the vehicle holding imitation firearms and was shot and wounded by a police officer. The suspect has been taken to a local hospital and is in police custody. According to police, no additional suspects are being pursued at this time.

Advice

Individuals in Manhattan should avoid the vicinity of the attack while the emergency response continues, follow all instructions issued by the local authorities, and report any suspicious objects or behavior.