NYPD searches for three after trio climbs into Woodside sewer
Officers from the 108th Precinct canvassed the area near 60th Street and 43rd Avenue for video evidence after witnesses reported the incident around 10:22 p.m. on Oct. 28.
By Carolina Wood ·
Three unidentified individuals remain at large after police received a report that they entered the Queens sewer system through an open manhole. The 108th Precinct received a 911 call regarding the trespass near 60th Street and 43rd Avenue in Woodside at approximately 10:22 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
A witness told detectives that he saw the three people remove the street hole cover and descend into the underground infrastructure. Although the NYPD Emergency Service Unit arrived on the scene, officers did not enter the sewer system themselves. The Department of Environmental Protection, which manages the city's sewers, was notified and sent a crew from its Bureau of Water and Sewer Operations to the location.
Police established a crime scene perimeter and began canvassing the surrounding neighborhood. Investigators are reviewing video footage from nearby cameras in an effort to identify the suspects. It is currently unknown whether the group caused damage to the sewer infrastructure or encountered any hazards while underground.
The incident adds to a series of sightings this year involving people entering and exiting New York City manholes. On Oct. 11, three men were observed diving into a manhole in Manhattan’s Hamilton Heights neighborhood. Authorities have not confirmed the specific motivation for this activity, though they have stated they do not believe the underground presence poses a security risk to the public.
The NYPD continues its investigation into the Woodside incident. Residents with information are asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS or 888-57-PISTA for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or via X at @NYPDTips, with all communications kept confidential.
