One bus was completely set ablaze after individuals lit articles of clothing on fire and threw them into the vehicle while others danced on the roof.
New York City turned into complete chaos over the weekend following the Knicks’ NBA Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs, as fans committed crimes of assault, arson, and property damage.
Large crowds flooded city streets after the Knicks secured the championship, with videos circulating on social media showing fans climbing onto moving vehicles, blocking traffic, smashing bottles in roadways, and vandalizing nearby businesses.
In Times Square, multiple school buses were targeted by the unruly crowds. One bus was completely set ablaze after individuals lit articles of clothing on fire and threw them into the vehicle while others danced on the roof. Fans also tore off truck hoods and stood atop the exposed engines.
A total of five school buses were either destroyed by fire or heavily damaged by vandals wielding bats and jumping on the vehicles. The buses had reportedly been used to transport people between Manhattan and MetLife Stadium for the FIFA World Cup.
In one video by Freedom News, a bus driver pleaded with the crowd not to damage his vehicle.
”This is f*cking up my check. This is coming out of my check!” he yelled, with footage showing him trying to use his body to protect the bus.
https://twitter.com/ScooterCasterNY/status/2066036351447789857?s=20
Violence also broke out during the celebration. A 17-year-old boy was shot near 43rd Street and Broadway, and NYPD officers had to transport him to the hospital after emergency personnel were unable to access the scene due to the crowds. According to ABC 7 New York, four additional incidents involving slashings or stabbings took place.
Police were seen on video trying to detain unruly people, but ultimately got into altercations as some unruly fans resisted arrest.
https://twitter.com/TPostMillennial/status/2066022982254825978?s=20
NYPD said it arrested 63 people, including charges of criminal possession of a weapon, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and others.
Libby’s Desk
Commentary and must-reads from Libby’s desk, straight to your inbox.
TPM Newsletter
The Post Millennial’s top stories, delivered to your inbox.
