MANHATTAN, New York (WABC) — Thousands of Knicks fans gathered outside Madison Square Garden Friday night to watch Game 2 of the NBA Finals, but celebrations after the team’s win led to multiple arrests and an injured police officer, according to the NYPD.<\/p>\n
Police estimate approximately 6,500 people attended the watch party outside the arena.<\/p>\n
The NYPD said the crowd became increasingly disorderly throughout the evening. Officers made arrests for assault and for individuals climbing light poles before the game ended.<\/p>\n
Following the Knicks’ victory, police said multiple people refused orders to leave the area, blocked traffic along Seventh and Eighth avenues from West 31st Street to West 35th Street, and climbed on food vendor carts, light poles and subway entrances.<\/p>\n
According to police, one person jumped over a barrier into a restricted area. When an officer attempted to remove the individual, the person allegedly punched the officer in the face multiple times, causing lacerations that required medical treatment. The officer was later treated and released.<\/p>\n
Police also arrested several people accused of selling counterfeit merchandise. One of those individuals was additionally charged with possessing a loaded firearm, according to the NYPD.<\/p>\n
In total, 26 people were taken into custody. Police said 17 people were arrested and charged, while nine others were issued criminal court summonses for disorderly conduct and released.<\/p>\n
Videos posted to the Citizen app showed large crowds gathered outside Madison Square Garden after the game, with police attempting to disperse fans from the area.<\/p>\n
The investigation remains ongoing.<\/p>\n
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