The family of Pamela Cisneros, who was involved in a deadly stabbing incident in Times Square, reveals her long-standing struggle with mental illness. Cisneros, aged 49, fatally stabbed one person and injured another before being shot by NYPD officers. Her brother, Patrick Peralta, expressed shock, stating he was unaware of her harming others aside from herself prior to this incident.
Peralta, aged 59, shared his confusion over his sister’s actions on Monday. He mentioned not understanding her rage and noted her history of mental health issues, including postpartum depression and multiple hospitalizations. A significant episode involved her suicide attempt by jumping onto subway tracks. Despite her challenges, Peralta remembers Cisneros as a “happy-go-lucky kid” during their childhood in Jackson Heights.
Cisneros had publicly shared thoughts on social media regarding random violence, citing “the end times” as a context for such actions. Her mental health concerns emerged around two decades ago after the birth of her second child, coinciding with her postpartum depression. Similar cases have gained attention, such as Lindsey Clancy, accused of murdering her children under postpartum psychosis.
Cisneros’ family situation is complex. Her middle child, who is autistic and nonverbal, resides in a group home, and her other children live in Florida with their father. Cisneros had previously attempted suicide, leading to hospitalization, and had struggled with regularly taking psychiatric medication, relying instead on monthly injections to manage her condition.
The incident unfolded rapidly when Cisneros attacked strangers with kitchen knives, injuring a 68-year-old man, and fatally stabbing Erin Piacenti, a Bank of America vice president. Officers confronted Cisneros, who refused to drop her knives, leading to her being shot after an unsuccessful attempt to subdue her with a Taser.
Peralta noted his attempts to stay updated on his sister’s wellbeing, mentioning her absence from regular family dinners as concerning. Despite recent employment as an administrative assistant, her mental health condition remained a critical factor. Peralta and his family expressed their deep regret for the harm caused to the victims.