A World Cup shuttle bus was set ablaze, and a teenager sustained a gunshot wound as celebrations following the New York Knicks’ historic NBA Finals victory descended into disorder across parts of Midtown Manhattan early Sunday.
Thousands of jubilant fans flooded the streets after the Knicks secured their first NBA championship since 1973, defeating the San Antonio Spurs to clinch the title in five games. The victory marked only the franchise’s third NBA Finals appearance since its last championship triumph more than five decades ago.
As crowds poured out of bars, fan zones and public viewing venues, celebratory scenes quickly escalated. Fireworks and smoke grenades were reportedly set off as supporters chanted slogans and occupied major sections of Times Square.
According to New York police, a 17-year-old boy suffered a gunshot wound to the foot around 2 a.m. during the celebrations. Authorities confirmed that three persons of interest had been taken into custody as investigations continued.
The unrest also affected FIFA World Cup-related transportation services operating in the city. Hundreds of revelers reportedly surrounded a convoy of shuttle buses that had transported football fans from a World Cup fixture between Brazil and Morocco, which ended in a draw.
Witnesses said some individuals climbed onto the roofs of the buses, entered the vehicles and occupied drivers’ seats. One of the yellow school buses contracted by city authorities to transport football supporters was subsequently set on fire, while at least three others sustained significant damage.
Images and videos from the scene showed crowds gathered around the vehicles, with some fans waving flags and celebrating atop the buses. The extent of injuries linked to the bus incident was not immediately clear.
The disturbances have raised concerns about crowd management and public safety as New York continues to host World Cup-related events alongside major sporting celebrations.
Authorities are expected to review security measures ahead of upcoming World Cup fixtures and public gatherings in the city. Investigations into both the shooting and the destruction of public property remain ongoing.
