A joyous title celebration by thousands escalated into clashes in Midtown and Times Square, leaving a 17-year-old wounded and properties damaged.
After the local team’s victory in the NBA Finals, thousands of fans poured onto the streets of New York, but in several neighborhoods the celebrations turned into clashes with police, arson, and property damage.
According to law enforcement, in several areas of the city celebrations ended in clashes with police.
It is noted that a 17-year-old teen was wounded by a gunshot during the disturbances in downtown Manhattan, as thousands of basketball fans took to the streets on Saturday, June 13, to celebrate the historic victory of their team, the New York Knicks, in the Finals.
Some fans, rushing out of crowded bars and open plazas, fired fireworks and threw smoke grenades.
The most tense situation occurred near Madison Square Garden and Times Square, where, according to the New York Police Department, at least three people were detained.
Around 2 a.m., a 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg during celebrations on Times Square; three people suspected of committing the crime are in custody.
During the mass celebrations, the crowd damaged several buses used to transport fans for the Brazil – Morocco match. One of the buses was set on fire. There were also reports of damage to police cars and other city transit vehicles.
To restore public order, the New York Police Department deployed riot-gear units and mounted police. Officers gradually pushed the crowd away from the city’s central streets.
In the fifth game of the Finals, the New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs (94-90), won the series 4-1, and claimed their first title in 53 years.
Consequences and Official Response
Law enforcement authorities continue to investigate the incidents and intensify patrols in the affected areas of the city. City and club leaders call on citizens to celebrate peacefully and adhere to the law.