NYPD Investigating Explosion in Times Square Station, Suspect in Custody
Midtown Manhattan went into crisis mode early Monday following an explosion in a Times Square transit station.
Police said an explosive device went off around 7:20 a.m. ET inside the Port Authority Bus Terminal at 42nd Street and 8th Avenue. Police identified the suspect as Akayed Ullah, 27, of Brooklyn. Authorities emphasized during a news conference that they believe he acted alone.
The device was described as an explosive device attached to his body with velcro and other fasteners. The device went off as the suspect was carrying it into the subway tunnel passage area of the transit hub, according to broadcast reports.
Ullah suffered burns and other injuries as a result of the explosion. At least three other people suffered minor injuries in the chaos that ensued.
The incident snarled transit and traffic in Midtown as police shuttered streets in the busy area, including the Westside Highway. Subways were diverted to avoid the Times Square 42nd Street station, a crucial crossroads especially during the morning rush hour period. Some subway cars that were en route to the area had to be evacuated as law enforcement swarmed the Port Authority station.
Police said regular transit service is expected to be restored by the evening rush-hour period.
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