NYPD investigating after officers hit with snowballs: ‘criminal behaviour’
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is investigating an incident where multiple officers were struck with snowballs while responding to a massive snowball fight in Washington Square Park, Manhattan. A video of the altercation shows officers being hit repeatedly by snowballs as they tried to manage the chaotic situation during a winter storm. The officers became visibly frustrated, shoving at least two individuals to the ground. One officer even had snow smeared on his head, and another appeared to rub his eye after being struck. Several injured officers were taken to a nearby hospital in stable condition.
The NYPD confirmed that the behavior was "disgraceful" and "criminal," with the department launching an investigation into the incident. While no arrests have been made yet, the union representing police officers called it an "assault." The video, which has since gone viral, highlights the chaotic nature of the snowball fight and the aggressive actions taken by those involved.
This incident raises important questions about public behavior during large gatherings, particularly when law enforcement is involved. It also underscores the challenges faced by police in maintaining order during such events, especially under extreme weather conditions like a winter storm. The investigation reflects the NYPD's commitment to addressing any acts of violence or misconduct, even if they occur in seemingly harmless contexts like snowball fights.
For readers interested in global news, this story offers insight into how public disorder and law enforcement interactions can escalate quickly. It also serves as a reminder of the potential risks faced by officers while performing their duties, even in situations that may appear light-hearted at first glance. The outcome of the investigation will likely influence how similar incidents are handled in the future, making it an important case to follow for those interested in public safety and law enforcement dynamics.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/24/2026