Fresh York City police are investigating after officers were pelted with snowballs while responding to a large snowball fight at Washington Square Park in Manhattan, amid a winter storm that blanketed the Northeast.
Snowball Fight Escalates into Investigation
Video footage of the incident shows uniformed officers being struck with snowballs from all directions on Monday. Officers responded with physical force, shoving at least two individuals to the ground as the snowballs continued. One officer had snow mushed onto their head, and another was seen rubbing their eye.
According to a statement released Tuesday, multiple officers were hit in the face and transported to a nearby hospital in stable condition. No arrests have been made at this time.
Political Fallout
The incident has drawn criticism from several political figures. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the behavior as “disgraceful” and “criminal,” and announced an investigation. Critics of Mayor Zohran Mamdani referenced his past criticisms of the police department, made during his 2020 campaign.
Mayor Mamdani responded to the incident on X, stating, “Officers, like all city workers, have been out in a historic blizzard, keeping New Yorkers safe and cars moving. Treat them with respect. If anyone’s catching a snowball, it’s me.” He later described the event as “a snowball fight” at a news conference.
Patrick Hendry, President of the Police Benevolent Association, called the mayor’s response a “complete failure of leadership,” stating, “This was not just a ‘snowball fight.’ This was an assault.” He added that the mayor’s dismissal of the incident sends a “disgraceful message” to police officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the police response to Washington Square Park?
Officers responded to the park around 4 p.m. Monday for a report of multiple individuals on a roof inside the park.
What was the reaction of the police commissioner to the incident?
Jessica Tisch called the behavior “disgraceful” and “criminal” and said the department is investigating.
How did Mayor Mamdani characterize the incident?
Mayor Mamdani initially stated, “From the videos that I’ve seen, it looks like a snowball fight.”
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether any charges will be filed. The incident raises questions about the boundaries of public protest and the safety of law enforcement officers during large gatherings.
Keep reading