New York police reported that 63 people were arrested overnight as chaotic crowds flooded the streets to celebrate the New York Knicks' first NBA championship in 53 years. The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in Game 6 of the NBA Finals on Saturday night.
Violence Erupts During Celebrations
According to a New York Police Department spokesperson, one person was shot and four others were stabbed during the unrest. Rioters bashed police cars with bats, shattered windshields, and set school buses on fire. Ten police officers were injured, including one who was punched in the face and another struck with a glass bottle.
Teenager Shot Near Times Square
A 17-year-old was shot near Manhattan's Times Square and had to be taken to the hospital in a police car because an ambulance could not navigate through the crowded streets. Five school buses were destroyed or set on fire, and five police vehicles were severely damaged, along with several private cars.
Fights broke out among fans, who climbed lamp posts and traffic lights and lit fireworks amid the crowds. The celebrations coincided with the first match of the FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where thousands of fans of Morocco and Brazil were also on the streets of Manhattan. The destroyed school buses were being used to transport people to the stadium for World Cup games.
Charges Filed
Those arrested face charges including assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, disorderly conduct, and other offenses. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that a parade will be held on Thursday to celebrate the Knicks' victory.
