Mysterious Escape in Manhattan: More Exits from the Sewer

New York’s Upper East Side in Manhattan saw police respond after three people were seen emerging from the sewer system. The incident occurred at the intersection of Park Avenue and East 61st Street.

The call was received at 04:35.

In a 911 call made to the New York Police Department (NYPD) at 04:35 in the morning, it was reported that three people emerged from a manhole cover and were seen on the surface. Police said the three later boarded two separate vehicles and left the area northward along Park Avenue.

Manhole Inspected with Drone

Police teams reopened the relevant manhole cover about eight hours after the incident. A drone was dispatched to the sewer line for an internal inspection. NYPD announced that no suspicious findings were discovered during the check. To date, no arrests or detentions related to the incident have been reported.

Park Avenue Temporarily Closed

During the investigation, on Wednesday afternoon, the northbound lanes of Park Avenue near East 61st Street were temporarily closed to traffic. The review showed that, in addition to NYPD units, at least two federal officers were also present.

United Nations General Assembly Detail

The incident drew attention for occurring during a period when security measures were heightened in Manhattan because of the United Nations General Assembly. Former NYPD Deputy Commissioner Rich Esposito said he was surprised that none of the East Side alleyways in Manhattan had been closed before the General Assembly. Esposito noted that, following the incident, it was expected that various agencies would reassess their security procedures.

Sewer Incidents Keep Coming

The incident in Manhattan was the latest in a series of similar sewer incidents that have occurred across New York recently. A similar incident was also reported in Long Island not long ago. Police sources had previously indicated that those entering the sewer systems could be treasure hunters or urban explorer groups conducting city explorations.

A Similar Incident Had Occurred in Brooklyn

Last year, in a similar incident that occurred in Brooklyn, several people were charged with damage to public property and theft. Officials warn that unauthorized entry into sewer systems poses serious security risks.

Sewer Warning from Officials

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection states that sewer systems contain serious risks such as hazardous gases, uneven surfaces, sudden water surges, and confined spaces, emphasizing that citizens should not enter these areas.