New York Police Investigate Snowball Fight After Officers Pelted

Mayor and police commissioner divided over whether snowball throwers should be arrested or just reminded to show respect

Feb. 24, 2026 at 10:18pm

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The New York Police Department is investigating a boisterous snowball fight in a Manhattan park after several officers were hit in the face, dividing the mayor and police commissioner on whether the throwers should be arrested and prosecuted or just reminded to show more respect.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the public, with differing views on when playful behavior crosses the line into criminal assault. It also raises questions about how police should respond to large public gatherings, especially when school is canceled and people are out enjoying the snow.

The details

Video footage shows officers being pelted with snowballs by a jeering crowd in Washington Square Park. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the behavior was "disgraceful" and "criminal", while Mayor Zohran Mamdani described it as just "kids at a snowball fight" who didn't show enough respect. Two officers reportedly suffered minor injuries. No arrests have been made so far.

  • The incident occurred on Monday afternoon around 4pm.
  • A major blizzard had led to school and road closures, prompting many New Yorkers to gather in the park.

The players

Jessica Tisch

The New York Police Commissioner who said the snowball throwing was "disgraceful" and "criminal".

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who described the incident as just "kids at a snowball fight" and said the officers should be treated with respect, but not prosecuted.

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What they’re saying

“The behavior depicted is disgraceful, and it is criminal.”

— Jessica Tisch, Police Commissioner (marketscreener.com)

“I think it was a snowball fight. I'll leave it to others to share their opinions, but I've shared mine.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor (marketscreener.com)

What’s next

The police department says detectives are still investigating the incident and no arrests have been made yet. The mayor and police commissioner are expected to continue discussing the appropriate response.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing public safety, free expression, and community relations, especially when it comes to how police should respond to large public gatherings that may involve some minor misbehavior. It will likely spur further debate over use of force, public assembly rules, and the line between playful fun and criminal activity.