A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with a suspicious package left outside the NYPD Times Square substation, leading to a temporary evacuation of the area. Yesterday morning, authorities shut down Seventh Avenue between 42nd and 44th Streets after the package was discovered. According to ABC7 New York, the bomb squad promptly assessed the object and ultimately found it to be harmless.
Desean Maryat, a 26-year-old from the Bronx, was apprehended by detectives after he allegedly left the object, which prompted a significant police response. Maryat was later taken to a hospital for a psych evaluation and has been charged with reckless endangerment and making terroristic threats. AM New York reports that authorities quickly sprung into action to carefully examine and safely to remove the item, which turned out to be rolled-up pieces of paper and a ripped-up magazine.
The incident caused considerable disruption in Times Square, an area known as the "Crossroads of the World," which is typically teeming with tourists and New Yorkers alike. Authorities took every precaution, cordoning off streets and evacuating buildings until the bomb squad could clear the object. No injuries were reported in the process of the evacuation or subsequent investigation.
Maryat, who is reportedly on probation for assault, was identified and located after he returned to the scene. According to police sources, officers recognized him by his black pants, green hooded sweatshirt, black and white shoes, and green backpack. In a statement provided by AM New York, the NYPD's Evidence Collection Team was observed to diligently document and collect the pieces of paper before bagging them for further analysis. Charges against Maryat are pending at this time.
