Snowball Fight Turns Confrontational in NYC Park

Police Benevolent Association calls for arrests after NYPD officers pelted with snowballs

Feb. 24, 2026 at 4:36am

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A group of people were captured on video throwing snowballs at NYPD officers on Monday in Washington Square Park in New York City's Greenwich Village neighborhood. The incident occurred during a planned snowball fight meetup, with the crowd taunting and following the officers as they walked to their police van.

Why it matters

The confrontation between the public and police in a public park raises concerns about public safety and the appropriate response from law enforcement, especially during a recreational winter activity. The Police Benevolent Association's call for arrests highlights the potential for escalation and the need to balance public order with civil liberties.

The details

Footage shows NYPD officers being followed and pelted with snowballs by a group of people in Washington Square Park. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the "disgraceful" and "criminal" behavior seen in the video and said detectives are investigating the matter.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Police Benevolent Association

The union representing NYPD officers, which is calling for arrests and charges following the snowball incident.

Jessica Tisch

The NYPD Commissioner who denounced the behavior seen in the video as "disgraceful" and "criminal".

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, whose office was contacted by CBS News New York for comment on the incident.

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What they’re saying

“The behavior depicted is disgraceful, and it is criminal. Our detectives are investigating this matter.”

— Jessica Tisch, NYPD Commissioner (CBS News New York)

What’s next

The NYPD is investigating the incident, and the Police Benevolent Association is calling for arrests and charges against the individuals involved.

The takeaway

This confrontation highlights the need for better communication and de-escalation between law enforcement and the public, even during recreational activities, to maintain public order and safety without infringing on civil liberties.