Fans ignite buses, cause chaos in New York after Knicks NBA win

New York City experienced a chaotic night as celebrations for the New York Knicks' NBA championship victory quickly devolved into widespread disorder. Thousands of fans poured into the streets of Midtown Manhattan, turning jubilant celebrations into scenes of vandalism and destruction.

Following the Knicks' first championship win since 1973, fans flooded bars and streets, igniting fireworks and smoke grenades. The revelry took a dangerous turn around 2 a.m. when a 17-year-old was shot in the leg in Times Square. Three individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting.

Simultaneously, a large crowd surrounded approximately 15 shuttle buses that had transported football fans. Some individuals climbed onto the buses, entered them, and even occupied the driver's seats. A yellow school bus, hired by the city for fan transport, was set ablaze, and at least three other buses sustained significant damage. Images from the scene showed people climbing onto the buses, carrying bicycles on their roofs, and continuing to celebrate amidst the smoke and flames.

In response, riot control forces were deployed, leading to street closures and the dispersal of the crowds. Mounted police were also brought in to manage the situation. One New York resident described the atmosphere as "New Year's Eve but multiplied by twenty."

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It felt like New Year's Eve but multiplied by twenty.