They arrest a man who attacked police officers with a machete in NY

A man accused of attacking police with a machete near New York’s Times Square on New Year’s Eve was arrested Monday on attempted murder charges, according to police, as authorities continue to investigate whether he was motivated by Islamic extremism.

Trevor Bickford, 19, also faces attempted assault charges in the attack that injured two officers, the New York Police Department said in a statement.

Bickford, who lives in Wells, Maine, remained hospitalized Monday after being shot in the shoulder by police during the confrontation and was awaiting arraignment. It is unknown if he has a lawyer to comment on his judicial situation. The Associated Press has messaged his relatives seeking comment.

The incident occurred about two hours before midnight on Saturday, just outside the high-security zone where attendees undergo gun control before entering one of the largest and most famous New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world. world.

Two officers were seriously injured with the machete before the suspect was killed, according to authorities. The two officers were hospitalized, one with a fractured skull and the other with a major cut, and are expected to recover. The suspect too.

An official familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Sunday that investigators believe Bickford traveled to New York City a few days ago. They are investigating whether he made the trip specifically to attack police at the Times Square celebrations, said the officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.

New York City police and federal officials are still trying to discern a motive, and investigators are reviewing Bickford’s online postings, which include mentions of extremist Islamic stances, according to the officer.