Seven individuals were captured on surveillance footage emerging from a sewer manhole in Brooklyn's Gravesend neighborhood early Friday morning, prompting an investigation by the New York Police Department. The bizarre incident occurred around 2 a.m. on McDonald Avenue, according to video obtained by The Flatbush Scoop.
Surveillance Footage Details
The footage shows a person removing the manhole cover before several more individuals climbed out of the sewer system one by one. Some were seen holding flashlights and wearing waders, gloves, and heavy-duty boots typically used in wet or hazardous environments. After reaching the surface, the group gathered near two parked cars, where they appeared to remove dirty gear and load equipment into the vehicles before driving away.
Similar Incident Hours Earlier
Approximately one hour prior, a similar scene unfolded in another part of Brooklyn. Around 1 a.m., eight people were recorded entering a sewer manhole near Heyward Street and Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, according to News 12 Brooklyn. The group later emerged and departed in a waiting vehicle.
Investigators are working to determine whether the two incidents are connected. Police examined the Gravesend location Friday afternoon and later confirmed via social media that the area was "safe and free of hazards." However, the reason for the group's underground activity remains unknown.
Official Statements
The NYPD found no damage to the Gravesend sewer system. The NYC Department of Environmental Protection also issued a statement to News 12 Brooklyn, noting no damage was detected at the site. A DEP spokesperson emphasized: "Entering the sewer system is both illegal and extremely dangerous. Sewers can contain numerous hazards, including noxious and potentially deadly gases, unstable surfaces, flooding risks and confined spaces. For these reasons, members of the public should never enter a pipe, drain, catch basin, manhole or outfall."
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing. The Independent has contacted the NYPD and the DEP for further comment.
