Machete Attack on Cops Near Times Square Probed as Terror Act
A machete assault on police officers near Times Square on New Year’s Eve is under investigation as a possible terror attack. The suspect reportedly targeted officers working a security detail in the area, swinging a large knife at multiple cops before being shot by police.
19-Year-Old Suspect Claims Spotlight
Authorities say 19-year-old Trevor Bickford from Wells, Maine, approached NYPD officers around 10pm on Saturday near 8th Avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets. According to NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell, Bickford struck three officers, hitting two in the head. An 8-year veteran suffered a head laceration, while a recent police academy graduate sustained a skull fracture. All three officers were rushed to Bellevue Hospital and are expected to survive.
Possible Jihadist Motive and FBI Involvement
Police revealed the machete used in the attack, and confirmed one officer fired back, hitting Bickford in the shoulder. His injuries are said to be non-life threatening. Although he had no prior arrests, sources say Bickford was on law enforcement’s radar for previous jihadist writings posted online. Investigators are exploring whether he traveled to New York with the specific intent to target police.
“At this time, we believe this was a single individual; nothing suggests otherwise,” stated Mike Driscoll, FBI assistant director in charge of the New York Field Office. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the probe.
Chaos on New Year’s Eve
The attack sparked fear among the crowds waiting to join the New Year’s Eve festivities. Revellers fled in panic after the machete assault and gunfire near the screening zone. Police quickly shut down the area to investigate. Despite the drama, the nearby Times Square celebrations carried on unaffected.
