Civilian Reportedly Kicked Guns Out Of NYC Terror Attacker's Hands

In the midst of the chaos of Tuesday’s attack in downtown Manhattan, a bystander stepped up to help out law enforcement.

After 29-year-old Sayfullo Saipov rammed his truck into the West Side Highway bike path that afternoon, he jumped out of his rented truck wielding firearms and dropped to the pavement. It was then that an unidentified civilian, who had previously attempted to tackle Saipov, leapt forward to kick the guns out of his hands, according to the New York Times.

Saipov killed eight people and injured 15 when he drove his car into pedestrians and cyclists on the path. The attack was halted when New York Police Officer Ryan Nash fired nine shots at Saipov, hitting him once in the abdomen. The firearms in Saipov's hands turned out to be a pellet gun and a paintball gun.

“To NYPD Officer Ryan Nash – thank you for your bravery & quick action in stopping yesterday’s terrorist attack,” former Police Commissioner William J. Bratton wrote on Twitter. “Truly one of New York’s finest.”

Others on the scene also rushed to help the victims of the attack. Photos and videos taken at the scene showed bystanders rendering aid and helping those lying in the street. People could be seen huddled over the bodies and damaged bicycles in an attempt to help.

Authorities condemned the attack as terrorism. A note was found inside the truck claiming the attack was done in the name of ISIS, according to officials.

“This was an act of terror,” New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said Tuesday. “And a particularly cowardly act of terror aimed at innocent civilians, aimed at people going about their lives who had no idea what was about to hit them.”

Saipov remained hospitalized Wednesday after surgery. Officials said they were able to speak to him beforehand but it remained unclear what, if anything, he told them.