A World Cup shuttle bus was set on fire, and four others were destroyed in Times Square early Sunday morning after fans rioted following the New York Knicks' historic NBA Championship victory.
The chaotic scene unfolded at about 2 am after the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 to secure their first title in 53 years. While thousands celebrated peacefully across New York City, a massive crowd in Midtown Manhattan turned destructive, clashing with law enforcement and causing widespread property damage.
Revelers swarmed a convoy of roughly 15 yellow school buses parked near 42nd Street and Eighth Avenue. The city had hired the buses to transport soccer fans back from a World Cup match between Brazil and Morocco in New Jersey.
Rioters ripped off the hoods, smashed windshields, and jumped on top of the vehicles. One bus was fully engulfed in flames after individuals tossed lit clothing inside while others danced on the roof.