Grand Central slashing victims seeking to sue NYC over subway security

Leila Sumulong, 70, and Jose Fermin, 84, were among three people attacked by 44-year-old Anthony Griffin at the 42nd Street-Grand Central station on April 11. A third victim, a 65-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries, including an open skull fracture.

Published: August 22, 2026 5:03pm

Updated: August 22, 2026 5:04pm

Two elderly victims of a machete attack at New York City’s Grand Central subway station are seeking permission to pursue legal action against the city, arguing that authorities failed to provide adequate security at the busy transit hub.

Leila Sumulong, 70, and Jose Fermin, 84, were among three people attacked by 44-year-old Anthony Griffin at the 42nd Street-Grand Central station on April 11. A third victim, a 65-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries, including an open skull fracture.

Griffin wielded a 17-inch machete and was fatally shot by police after refusing to drop the weapon and threatening officers. Sumulong and Fermin, enduring physical injuries and PTSD, seek to file a late notice of claim against the city, blaming a lack of police presence for the extent of the attack. 

Their attorney, Joseph Napoli, asserts that the city, NYPD, and MTA failed in their duty to protect passengers. NYPD defended its actions, citing officers' efforts to de-escalate before using lethal force.

 

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