NYPD Chief of Department John Chell discusses a comprehensive security strategy for the Macy's Fireworks Extravaganza on the Fourth of July.
The NYPD is set to ensure a secure and enjoyable Fourth of July for New Yorkers and visitors alike, with an extensive multi-layered security approach addressing potential threats, including lone wolf attacks.
**Water Patrols and Marine Security**
The NYPD's Harbor Unit will be patrolling the waterways, particularly the East River near the Brooklyn Bridge, where the fireworks are launched. Their marine units, equipped with radiation detectors and underwater surveillance technology, will conduct searches for suspicious devices under the firework barges. Divers will be on standby to secure the Brooklyn Bridge and surrounding areas, allowing only authorized vessels near the event and providing a swift response on the water.
**Land Security and Crowd Control**
On land, the NYPD will enforce strategic street closures around viewing areas to prevent vehicle-ramming attacks. The Brooklyn Bridge and parts of the FDR Drive will be closed to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, creating a secure perimeter. Officers will conduct bag checks and deploy heavy weapons teams, explosive detection units, canines, and bomb squads to deter and respond to threats. The large police presence will be supported by advanced intelligence capabilities, including monitoring over 50,000 city cameras from a Joint Operations Center that collaborates with state and federal agencies to identify and neutralize threats before they materialize.
**Monitoring Lone Wolf Threats**
Lone wolf attackers are identified as the most significant threat during July 4 events in major cities like New York. The NYPD prepares for this by intensifying intelligence gathering, monitoring online and offline threats, tips, and leads. The comprehensive surveillance and rapid response strategy are designed to detect and prevent lone wolf activities.
**Air Patrols and Fire Safety**
Though less detailed in the sources, the FDNY teams will accompany the NYPD with fire safety measures, including inspections and standby fire trucks positioned on the Brooklyn Bridge to respond swiftly in case of emergencies during the fireworks display.
Overall, the NYPD’s Fourth of July security plan integrates high-tech marine patrols, heavy ground presence with specialized units, extensive surveillance, strategic closures, and inter-agency intelligence cooperation to ensure public safety against a range of threats, including lone wolf attacks.
NYPD Chief of Department John Chell emphasized the importance of immediate action, stating, "It's better to be safe than sorry." He also invited the public to come out and enjoy the fireworks show on either the Manhattan or Brooklyn side, reminding them that they will see thousands of cops, helicopters, and boats patrolling during the display.
The NYPD's Intelligence Bureau works with federal partners to monitor potential threats every day, and the department is on high alert for the Fourth of July. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that New York is not facing a specific credible threat over the holiday weekend, but the city remains vigilant in its preparations.
The public is advised to stay alert and immediately notify law enforcement of any suspicious activity. If you see something, say something. Enjoy the Fourth of July celebrations safely!
Sports enthusiasts should take note that despite the heightened security measures for the Fourth of July, there might be some alterations in routine sports events or activities around the city due to the enhanced security presence.
In the realm of general news, it's worth mentioning that the crime and justice sector will maintain a heightened vigilance during the Fourth of July festivities, with the NYPD's Intelligence Bureau, in collaboration with federal partners, staying on high alert to monitor potential threats and respond promptly to any suspicious activities.
