A horrifying incident unfolded near Madison Square Garden in New York City on New Year’s Eve as a car ploughed into revellers, leaving at least nine people injured, including three NYPD officers. The incident occurred just as crowds were leaving Times Square after celebrating the ball drop, marking the arrival of 2024.
Reports indicate that a mass casualty incident was declared following the collision, which transpired at the intersection of West 34th Street and 9th Avenue. The shocking event prompted a swift response from the police and emergency services.
Authorities received a distress call around 1:40 am local time, as throngs of people were making their way out of Times Square following the annual New Year’s Eve festivities. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle mounted the sidewalk and struck both civilians and police officers before coming to a halt.
The driver, identified as a 44-year-old male, is currently in custody at Bellevue Hospital. It has been reported that the police were actively pursuing the vehicle in the moments leading up to the crash.
Disturbing images from the scene depict the aftermath of the collision, showing at least three vehicles involved in the wreck, including two black cars and a yellow taxi. A video captured a man being stretchered away from the scene, appearing to be conscious.
As of 4:00 am, police were still cordoning off the area where the incident occurred, conducting investigations and tending to the injured.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) had a significant presence in the city for New Year’s Eve, with a heightened security effort in place. While there were no specific threats reported to the city’s annual celebration, New York Mayor Eric Adams stated that additional security measures were implemented, including expanding the security perimeter around Times Square to create a “buffer zone” to preempt potential demonstrations.
This incident serves as a chilling reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement during major public events. Last New Year’s Eve, in 2022, a machete-wielding man attacked three police officers just a few blocks from Times Square, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness on such occasions.
