Mysterious Sewer Dives Continue in New York City
Entries into New York City's sewers are on the rise, with police suspecting individuals are searching for lost valuables. Officials warn of the significant dangers involved.
New York City has seen a series of unusual incidents involving people entering its sewer system, with the latest occurring Sunday in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood. Police arrived to find the manhole empty after three individuals had descended into the system shortly before 1 a.m.
Last week, five people were seen emerging from a manhole on the Upper East Side, leaving behind tools. Similar cases have been reported near Penn Station, in Williamsburg, Bensonhurst, and Gravesend. Officials note that these sewer explorations appear to be increasing.
According to police and the city's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), those entering the sewers are likely motivated by treasure hunting, seeking lost valuables and scrap metal washed into the system. While dangerous for the individuals, authorities do not believe these activities pose a public threat.
In September, two men caught entering a manhole on the Upper East Side told prosecutors they were looking for items washed away in storm drains. The DEP emphasizes that entering NYC's sewers is illegal and hazardous, citing risks such as toxic gases, unstable surfaces, and flooding.