United States: NYC incident being investigated as terror attack /update 2

Event

New York City officials announced during a press conference at approximately 17:20 (local time) on Tuesday, October 31, that the apparent car ramming attack that occurred earlier in the day in Lower Manhattan is being investigated as an act of terror. According to the mayor of New York City, at least eight people have died as a result of the incident and over a dozen more were wounded. Officials said that an increased police presence will be deployed throughout the city. Emergency personnel are reportedly still at the scene near the intersection of Chambers Street and West Street. Roads around the incident remain closed, including southbound lanes south of FDR Drive at 34th Street. An investigation into the incident is ongoing and details are still emerging.

Context

Initial 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.