In a disturbing incident that unfolded amid the bustling holiday crowds in New York City, a tourist stabbed while changing her baby’s diaper inside a restroom at the iconic Macy’s Herald Square store has shaken residents, visitors, and public safety officials alike. The attack occurred Thursday afternoon on December 11, 2025, leaving a Southern California woman injured and raising urgent concerns about public safety at popular tourist destinations. Here’s a detailed, verified account of what happened and how authorities are responding.
What Happened Inside Macy’s Bathroom?
Shortly after 3 p.m. on Thursday, police received a 911 call reporting an assault in progress at Macy’s flagship store located at Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan. Responding officers were directed to the seventh floor of the massive department store, where a restroom incident had just occurred.
Inside a women’s bathroom, a 38-year-old woman visiting from California was found suffering from multiple stab wounds to her back and a laceration to her arm. She had been stabbed while she was changing her 10-month-old daughter’s diaper. The attack was sudden and, according to police, appeared to be unprovoked. Authorities immediately transported her to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition for treatment.
Despite the chaos of the moment, her infant daughter was not seriously injured. The baby reportedly fell from the changing table during the attack but ultimately remained unharmed.
How the Suspect Was Stopped
Witness accounts and police reports indicate that the victim’s husband was outside the restroom with their two other children when the incident occurred. Hearing screams, he rushed inside to intervene. According to law enforcement, he was able to confront and restrain the suspect until police arrived, preventing further harm.
This quick action by her family likely prevented more severe injuries. After being subdued, the suspect was taken into custody by the NYPD without further incident.
Suspect Identified and Charged
Authorities have identified the suspect as 43-year-old Kerri Aherne, from Tewksbury, Massachusetts. She was arrested at the scene and subsequently charged with multiple serious offenses. The charges include attempted murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child.
Aherne was ordered held without bail following her court appearance on Friday. Prosecutors allege she purchased a knife inside Macy’s before entering the restroom where the attack took place. While further details about her motive have not been confirmed by police, the assault is being treated as random, and the investigation continues.
Victim’s Background and Condition
Law enforcement sources and public statements from officials confirm that the woman who was stabbed is a resident of Southern California and was visiting New York City with her family during the holiday season. Both she and her husband are employed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Following surgery and medical evaluation, she is expected to make a full recovery and remains in stable condition.
The victim’s identity has not been publicly released, respecting her family’s privacy during the ongoing investigation.
Macy’s Response to the Incident
Macy’s corporate leadership issued a statement expressing sorrow over the incident and affirming the company’s commitment to the safety of customers and employees. The statement stressed that public safety is a top priority and that Macy’s is cooperating fully with law enforcement as investigations proceed. The retailer deferred further comment to the local authorities handling the case.
This incident has prompted internal discussions about security measures at one of the busiest retail locations in the United States, especially during peak holiday shopping periods.
Public Safety and Community Reaction
News of the stabbing has reverberated through the Midtown Manhattan community, where Herald Square serves as both a major tourist attraction and a daily destination for thousands of city residents. Local officials and residents have expressed concern about the randomness of the attack and the risks posed to families and shoppers in high-traffic areas.
Some community members have called for enhanced security measures in Macy’s and around Herald Square, including increased police presence and preventative strategies to help ensure public safety inside large retail establishments.
Broader Context: Holiday Season and Tourist Safety
The stabbing occurred at one of New York City’s busiest times of the year. Herald Square is a magnet for holiday shopping traffic, with visitors from across the world converging on Macy’s and nearby attractions. Incidents like this one draw attention to the ongoing challenges of maintaining safety in high-density urban centers, especially in public spaces where tourists and families gather.
Officials have reiterated that isolated violent events remain rare, but they emphasize continued vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement, business owners, and community organizations to keep crowded areas safe.
What Authorities Are Saying Now
Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the attack. While initial reports indicate that the stabbing was unprovoked, authorities are reviewing all available evidence as part of their ongoing inquiry.
The NYPD has not released further details about Aherne’s background or possible motives, citing the active nature of the case. Prosecutors will present evidence during upcoming court proceedings, where Aherne’s charges will be addressed in more detail.
Safety Tips for Shoppers and Tourists
While this incident is deeply concerning, experts say that the overwhelming majority of visits to New York City’s major attractions remain safe. Still, visitors should always stay aware of their surroundings and seek immediate help from store staff or law enforcement if an emergency arises.
In public restrooms and crowded indoor spaces, staying vigilant and maintaining contact with family members can help minimize risk. Reporting unusual or threatening behavior to authorities can also play a critical role in preventing harm.
Have thoughts on this incident or ideas about improving public safety in major cities? Share your perspective with us and stay tuned for further verified updates as this case develops.