Bronx battle rapper Anthony Griffin, known by his stage name Fox 5, was fatally shot by NYPD detectives at the age of 44 following a violent confrontation.

According to authorities, the incident was not accidental: Griffin had allegedly attacked three people and charged at officers wielding a large knife described as a machete, according to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

The New York Post reports that Griffin’s attack began with an 85-year-old man, leaving him with a deep head wound. He also assaulted a 65-year-old man, who suffered similar head injuries, and a 70-year-old woman, whom he slashed on the shoulder.

Eyewitnesses say Griffin repeatedly referred to himself as “Lucifer” during the rampage at Grand Central Terminal, which occurred at approximately 9:50 a.m. on Saturday (April 11).

Two detectives on overtime duty for enhanced transit security were first on the scene. At a press conference near the crime site, Tisch stated that the officers spotted Griffin from the top of a staircase and commanded him to drop the knife, issuing at least 20 warnings. Griffin reportedly ignored their orders.

The detectives attempted to de-escalate the situation by reassuring him, saying, “We are going to get you help.” However, when these efforts failed, Griffin reportedly charged at them with the machete. In response, one of the officers discharged their firearm, hitting Griffin twice.

Despite being transported to Bellevue Hospital, Griffin succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving. Meanwhile, the three elderly victims are recovering in stable condition at various hospitals. Both officers involved in the incident are reported to be undergoing treatment for tinnitus.

This was not Griffin’s first encounter with violent behavior involving deadly weapons. Police records indicate he had a prior arrest for menacing with a sharp object.