CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan (WABC) — Four armed robberies reported on the east side of Central Park on Thursday night prompted an increased and visible police presence Friday near the locations where some of the incidents occurred.
The first robbery was reported at 8:41 p.m., followed by a second at 9:30 p.m. Two more robberies were reported at 9:45 p.m. Police said that in each case, three men approached visitors, displayed a gun and stole their cellphones before fleeing on a bicycle.
The incidents stood in contrast to what otherwise appeared to be a typical late-September evening in the park. Some visitors said they already avoid certain areas after dark.
“I’m not here too much at night,” said park visitor Wilfredo Morales.
When asked why, Morales said, “Yeah, because it’s better to just stay away from certain areas.”
Another park visitor said the reports raised concerns.
“I would absolutely be very careful. I wouldn’t carry like money or cellphones,” the visitor said.
The NYPD maintained a visible presence Friday night near 106th Street and East Drive, where two of the four robberies occurred.
Police said a 20-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were held up at gunpoint and had their phones stolen at that location. Two other men also told police they were robbed in the same area.
Visitor Ashley Cardenas said she was surprised by the reports.
“That’s kind of like shocking to hear – like now times I feel like – in the past maybe yeah. It was more of a thing robbing cellphones. But not so much now. It’s kind of odd,” Cardenas said.
For some visitors, the news was unexpected given the park’s reputation.
“Historical. So many people come – so many visitors come here to see the scenery,” Niko Li said.
Others said the incidents would not change their plans.
“We’ve lived here now 13, 14 years. I’ve never felt safer,” said Jonah Brill, who said seeing police in the park was reassuring.
Police are investigating to determine whether the same group is responsible for all four robberies.
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