Snowball Attack On NYPD Officers Sparks Criminal Investigation

NEW YORK, NY — Snowballs struck two New York City police officers in the face as they stepped into a roaring crowd at Washington Square Park on Monday afternoon, sending one officer stumbling backward while another wiped packed ice from his eyes.

The officers had arrived at about 4 p.m. after a 911 caller reported a disorderly group gathering near the park’s fountain. A snowball fight, promoted online hours earlier, had drawn hundreds into the park. Laughter and shouts echoed across the plaza as snow arced through the air.

Video recorded by bystanders shows the mood shift when uniformed officers moved into the center of the crowd. Several people turned and hurled snowballs at close range. Two officers absorbed hard-packed throws to the face and chest. One officer lunged forward and shoved a man to the ground. Another officer chased a man several steps and flung him onto the snow-covered pavement.

More officers pushed into the plaza as the barrage continued. Snowballs struck their backs and shoulders as they retreated toward the park’s perimeter. One officer raised a Taser, holding it at the ready while backing away. At least one person was arrested during the confrontation.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said detectives have opened an investigation.

“The NYPD is aware of certain videos taken earlier today in Washington Square Park showing individuals attacking cops. I want to be very clear: The behavior depicted is disgraceful, and it is criminal. Our detectives are investigating this matter,” Tisch wrote in a late-night social media post.

The Police Benevolent Association said several officers were treated for injuries.

“Unacceptable and outrageous — this is the environment that NYC police officers are up against. Our police officers are being treated for their injuries, but the case CANNOT end there. The individuals involved must be identified, arrested and charged with assault on a police officer. And all of our city leaders must speak up to condemn this despicable attack,” the union said in a statement.

“This is disgraceful. @NYCMayor and every elected official in our city should denounce this juvenile attack on our #NYPD. Back the blue and hold those who disrespect them accountable,” U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-Brooklyn/Staten Island, wrote on X.

Detectives are reviewing video footage to identify those involved.