By Kashmira Konduparty
A shooting and multiple arrests spoiled celebrations in New York City after the New York Knicks captured their first NBA championship in more than five decades, prompting panic among thousands of fans gathered in Times Square and other parts of Manhattan.
A 17-year-old boy was shot near Times Square late Friday as crowds celebrated the Knicks’ 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. A video shared on social media showed people running for cover after a series of gunshots rang out near the intersection of 42nd Street and Broadway.
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The teenager was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening. Police transported the victim because emergency vehicles had difficulty navigating through the large crowds that had flooded the area following the game.
The Knicks’ victory secured the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973, sparking celebrations across New York City. Thousands of fans gathered in Times Square, around Madison Square Garden and throughout Manhattan to mark the historic win.
The festivities, however, were accompanied by several violent incidents and acts of vandalism. Authorities said four people were stabbed or slashed during the celebrations, while school buses and police vehicles were damaged. One bus being used for FIFA World Cup transportation was set on fire.
Videos from the scene showed fans climbing onto buses, traffic lights and street fixtures as fireworks were launched into crowded streets.
The New York Police Department said officers recovered at least one loaded firearm from a suspect in Times Square. Police made 63 arrests related to the celebrations, with charges including assault on police officers, criminal possession of a weapon and disorderly conduct.
Authorities also reported that 10 police officers suffered injuries while responding to incidents across the city.
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New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to celebrate responsibility and avoid violence, while Knicks owner James Dolan thanked fans for their support and called for safe celebrations.
Despite the unrest, city officials noted that the vast majority of fans celebrated peacefully after witnessing one of the most significant moments in the franchise’s history. The championship ended a 53-year title drought for the Knicks and marked one of the city’s biggest sports achievements in decades.
New York City is also preparing for a championship parade to honor the Knicks’ title-winning season.