A suspicious package outside the NYPD’s Times Square Precinct prompted a large-scale evacuation Monday morning, temporarily shutting down one of New York City’s busiest intersections, as reported by The New York Post.
The cylindrical device was discovered around 10:30 a.m. outside the precinct building at 43rd Street and Seventh Avenue, according to law enforcement sources.
Times Square was evacuated on Monday morning after a man left a suspicious package outside of the NYPD command center at the “Crossroads of the World.” https://t.co/29hsr0VAPJ
— amNewYork™ (@amNewYork) August 18, 2025
Police quickly cordoned off the area, halting traffic and moving thousands of commuters and tourists out of the vicinity as the NYPD bomb squad investigated.
Footage from the scene showed a rare sight: Times Square virtually deserted, with only police vehicles and officers present in the normally packed streets. Aerial images captured the precinct and surrounding blocks at a standstill while authorities probed the device.
After a thorough examination, the bomb squad determined the package was not hazardous. Police later reopened the area and allowed the public to return.
🚨 BREAKING: Times Square evacuated as NYPD bomb squad investigates reports of a suspicious package.
— Viral News NYC (@ViralNewsNYC) August 18, 2025
Several bystanders described the tense moments during the evacuation. A couple visiting from Yonkers with their baby said they were startled by the sudden police response and asked reporters nearby, “Are we alright?”
A family visiting from Colombia explained they had just stepped off the train when they noticed streets blocked and officers directing people away. “We got off the train and saw everything closed off and police everywhere,” one of the family members said.
“They wouldn’t tell us everything. We’re just here because my sister has never seen New York.”
Journalist Kristina Partsinevelos, who was reporting from an office nearby, shared photos on social media showing police activity and blocked-off streets.
“Bomb squad looking at a suspicious package at the precinct on 43rd and 7th in Times Square. Streets are blocked off. Looks to be okay now. The view behind my desk,” she posted.
#Breaking: Bomb squad looking at a suspicious package at the precinct on 43rd and 7th in Times Square. Streets are blocked off.
Looks to be okay now. The view behind my desk. pic.twitter.com/GV4GA6zd3f
— Kristina Partsinevelos (@KristinaParts) August 18, 2025
Authorities said the investigation into the package remains ongoing, though there is no indication of any continuing threat to the public.
The incident marks another instance of heightened security in New York City, where police frequently respond to reports of suspicious items in high-traffic areas.
