A group of individuals described as vagrants has been reportedly terrorizing young girls, some as young as five, during soccer practice at a park in New York City's Meatpacking District. The incidents have occurred at the Gansevoort Peninsula field in Hudson River Park, a multi-million dollar facility that opened in 2023.
According to reports, the individuals have exhibited disruptive and aggressive behavior, including public intoxication, setting benches on fire, and engaging in public sexual acts. One individual was frequently seen wearing a grotesque penis mask and a balaclava with offensive messages, reportedly screaming at and harassing children and park workers. Another individual was seen sleeping in a goalpost, and others have been observed stripping and engaging in sexual activity on park benches.
Parents and soccer coaches have expressed concern and frustration over the ongoing situation. Jason Fernández, a parent whose daughter plays at the field, stated, "It's extremely concerning. Nothing is being done. When it comes to the kids, something has to happen." He also noted that park workers are forced to deal with the individuals, despite other city agencies being tasked with providing assistance.
Neighbors across the street reported that the group appears to get drunk at a nearby gas station before congregating at the park. Some have been aggressive towards food vendors, demanding free food and issuing threats. One food kiosk worker described the encounters as happening about twice a week.
The city's Department of Homeless Services stated that the park is not a known hotspot for their department but that they would monitor the location and offer services to individuals encountered. The NYPD indicated they did not respond to incidents at the park, and there were no 311 complaints filed regarding the individuals' behavior. Despite encampments being cleared last summer, parkgoers reported the behavior has become more brazen this year.
Park workers have been called to remove the individuals from the field on multiple occasions. However, parents note that the group often returns shortly after being escorted away. The area is near luxury residences, with penthouses selling for millions, and is frequented by celebrities.
One parent described one of the benches as having burn marks, allegedly from a man nicknamed "Fire Bug" who is part of the group. Another incident described by an eyewitness involved at least two individuals stripping and having sex on a bench in the afternoon.
The Gansevoort Peninsula park, a 5.5-acre space featuring a sports field, beach, and boardwalk, was part of a significant city investment. Parents have reported seeing individuals using the park bathrooms naked, even while children are present.