NYPD cop hurt, 26 arrested outside MSG watch party after Knicks win

More than two dozen people were arrested and a New York City Police Department officer was assaulted after a watch party outside of Madison Square Garden, as thousands of fans celebrated the New York Knicks’ Game 2 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals on Friday, June 5.

According to authorities, an officer was punched while trying to stop a fan who refused to leave the area. The woman jumped a barricade and ran into a restricted area.

Nearly 7,000 fans showed up to the World’s Most Famous Arena to celebrate New York’s 105-104 victory, bringing them two wins closer to their first championship since 1973. But authorities said 26 of those fans left the area in handcuffs, as 17 people were arrested and charged and nine others were issued criminal court summonses for disorderly conduct and released.

New York Knicks fans celebrate winning the Eastern Conference championship against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks last reached the NBA Finals in 1999, falling to the San Antonio Spurs, and are seeking their first championship since defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in 1973.

New York Knicks fans celebrate winning the Eastern Conference championship against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks last reached the NBA Finals in 1999, falling to the San Antonio Spurs, and are seeking their first championship since defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in 1973.

Karely Reyes, 29, was charged with assault, resisting arrest and obstruction of government administration for the incident with the police officer.

“A victory celebration shouldn’t end with blood pouring down a police officer’s face,” Police Benevolent Association President Pat Hendry said in a statement. “Our sister was just doing her job, trying to keep everyone safe in the pandemonium following the Knicks Game 2 win when an individual jumped over a barrier and punched her in the face hard enough to leave a bloody gash.”

“This is completely unacceptable and cannot be tolerated,” Hendry added. “We will be in court to make sure this individual faces the consequences she deserves.”

The NYPD had more than 1,000 officers on patrol at the MSG watch party.

Game 3 is Monday, June 8 at Madison Square Garden, and security will be on high alert once again as President Donald Trump is expected to attend.