NYPD details arrests and police injuries after Knicks Game 4 win

Fifty-six people were taken into custody and 10 New York Police Department officers were injured June 10 after large crowds gathered around Madison Square Garden during the New York Knicks’ Game 4 playoff win, according to police.

The NYPD said crowds began forming throughout the evening in areas north of Madison Square Garden between Fifth and Eighth avenues. Officials estimated the gathering ultimately grew to approximately 10,000 people as fans watched and celebrated the game.

As the night progressed, police said sections of the crowd engaged in increasingly dangerous and destructive behavior that disrupted traffic, damaged property and resulted in multiple arrests.

Among the incidents reported by the NYPD were people taking over city streets and blocking vehicle traffic, climbing atop moving trucks and taxis, attempting to overturn a taxi, igniting fireworks in dense crowds and scaling scaffolding, traffic lights, light poles and buildings.

Police also reported that individuals threw glass bottles and other objects into crowds and at officers, engaged in physical altercations that resulted in injuries, and climbed onto NYPD vehicles, causing significant damage to four department cars, including shattered front and rear windshields.

In one incident, individuals allegedly broke into a tractor-trailer, removed items from inside and threw them at officers and bystanders.

According to police, officers issued numerous verbal commands for crowds to disperse, but many participants refused to comply.

Of the 56 people taken into custody, 15 were formally arrested and 41 were issued criminal court summonses and released. Charges included assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, obstruction of governmental administration and trademark counterfeiting.

Ten NYPD officers suffered injuries during the unrest. One officer was struck in the head with a glass bottle, according to police.

In a statement Thursday, the NYPD defended its increased security presence around Madison Square Garden during the Knicks’ playoff run.

“This is an exciting time for the Knicks and for fans across New York City,” the department said. “The NYPD wants New Yorkers to be able to enjoy these celebrations, but our primary responsibility is to ensure that everyone can do so safely.”

The department added that the incidents demonstrated why officers had increased their presence in and around the arena.

Despite the disorder outside, businesses within the secured zone surrounding Madison Square Garden remained open and busy throughout the evening. Police said local bars and restaurants were filled with patrons watching the game, with some establishments reporting long lines of customers waiting to enter.

The NYPD said its security measures helped ensure businesses remained accessible and patrons could safely reach restaurants and bars during the event.

The Knicks’ deep playoff run has generated large crowds and celebrations throughout New York City, prompting increased security measures around Madison Square Garden for recent games.