June 30, 2025 New York, NY – A festive Sunday evening celebrating Pride at Washington Square Park devolved into widespread panic and chaos, leaving more than 50 people injured when false reports of gunfire combined with the deployment of bear spray sparked a terrifying stampede. The incident sent thousands of revelers fleeing for their lives from the popular Greenwich Village park.

Sources indicate a shirtless man unleashed potent chemicals, later identified as bear spray, into the crowd, causing burning eyes among several bystanders. Simultaneously, unconfirmed rumors of gunfire spread like wildfire, triggering a mass exodus as an estimated 10,000 people in the park believed they were in imminent danger.

Arrest Made Amidst Confusion and Injury

The NYPD confirmed that the man responsible for deploying the bear spray was arrested at the scene. While the exact breakdown of injuries directly attributable to the stampede versus the chemical spray remains unclear, authorities have indicated that none of the injuries are considered life-threatening. Many frantic attendees, caught in the surge, reportedly busted through police barriers in their desperate attempt to escape.

According to sources, the suspect claimed he deployed the bear spray in self-defense, believing he was about to be attacked. However, for the scores of individuals enjoying the Pride festivities, the sudden eruption of chaos was bewildering. Many revelers lingering near the park after the incident,

said they had no idea what was happening, simply reacting on instinct to what they perceived as popping sounds, fearing someone had opened fire into the celebratory crowd.

This unsettling event serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a joyful gathering can turn to fear, especially in public spaces. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the full scope of the incident and ensuring public safety at future events.