Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing a strong wave of criticism after a group of people threw snow and ice chunks at New York Police Department (NYPD) officers in Washington Square Park, Manhattan, during a snowstorm on February 23.
Developments in the Washington Square Park Snowball Incident
Videos circulating on social media show hundreds of people participating in a chaotic "snowball fight." When police appeared to control the order, some individuals shifted their targets to the officers on duty.
Images captured an NYPD SUV being hit by continuous snowballs. Notably, one person even placed a large block of ice on an officer's head before quickly fleeing. After the incident, officers had to retreat into their vehicles and leave the park.
Reactions from Former Leaders
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo sharply criticized the incident, stating that past anti-police rhetoric had created an "atmosphere" of disrespect for law enforcement. Former Mayor Eric Adams also spoke out, calling the act of throwing snowballs at police "disgraceful" and emphasizing that political figures need to show clearer support for the city's protectors.
Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis called for condemnation of this "childish yet dangerous" behavior and demanded accountability for those involved to maintain order.
Police Launch Investigation
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that the NYPD has opened a comprehensive investigation into the incident. She stated that the behavior shown in the videos is "criminal" and that detectives are actively working to identify those involved.
Police unions have also called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for assaulting officers. The incident occurred as New York had just experienced a major snowstorm, leaving many parts of the city covered in a thick layer of snow.
As of the morning of February 24, Mayor Mamdani has yet to issue any official statement regarding this controversial incident.
