The New York Knicks' historic NBA championship win, their first in over half a century, sparked jubilant street celebrations that descended into chaos and violence in Manhattan early Sunday.

Following the Knicks' 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Texas, thousands of fans took to the streets. Near Times Square, gunfire erupted around 2 a.m., wounding a 17-year-old boy in the foot. Five yellow school buses, used to shuttle World Cup fans, were set ablaze or vandalized.

The NYPD reported that crowds became 'increasingly destructive,' with 'many incidents of incredibly reckless and dangerous behavior.' Police cars were also targeted, with people using bats to damage them and jumping on windshields. Three persons of interest were detained, and a firearm recovered.

Sixty-three people were arrested on charges including assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, and disorderly conduct. Ten officers were injured, one punched in the face and another struck with a glass bottle. Other incidents included slashings, stabbings, and fireworks in crowds.

Knicks owner James Dolan had urged fans to celebrate safely, but the festivities spiraled. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced official celebrations, including a parade and city hall ceremony, for Thursday.

Source: www.bbc.com