NEW YORK – A viral video shows New York police officers being hit with bottles by a mob in the Bronx.
The disturbing scene happened at the corner of East 168th Street and Sheridan Avenue near Concourse Village on Sunday just after 8 p.m. In the video, which has been viewed more than 350,000 times online, police officers can be seen trying to disperse a large unruly crowd. Glass bottles started flying.
As officers attempted to make the arrest, bottles were seen hitting the officers or flying near them.
New York Police Commissioner Keith Sewell said he was disgusted by what was caught on camera.
“It’s outrageous that people think it’s acceptable to throw anything at a police officer,” Sewell said. “We will do everything we can to hold those responsible to account.”
On Tuesday afternoon, the police department released new video and images of some of the people they are looking for in connection with the incident. New York police said seven men between the ages of 20 and 25 were involved.
The suspects each fled the scene and the victim had bruises and cuts on her face.
Police union officials said the incident was a sign of the deteriorating situation in the city.
“The criminal element has been emboldened and empowered by laws passed by the City Council and the people of Albany,” said Detective Staffing Association President Paul DiGiacomo. “How many more massacres must happen before our politicians wake up?”
The union tweeted about the incident: “The city is in crisis and the governor, legislature and many lawyers are missing.”
Officers were attacked after a Bronx Dominican parade celebration this Sunday.
Anyone who recognizes the individuals seen in the videos is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or in Spanish at 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).