Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
NYPD

Cop to Central Park Cyclists: Your Safety Matters Less Than a Squirrel’s

Let's say someone who's tired of cars in Central Park decides to hammer nails through some planks and place them on the park drives. Tires are punctured and a few rear-end collisions cause minor injuries. Would NYPD be as flip as the officer quoted in today's Post story on the vandal (or vandals) who scattered tacks in the path of park cyclists?

One of the riders reported the carnage to the Central Park Precinct and cops promised to investigate -- but sources said there was no official paperwork.

"We have more important things to worry about, like people getting shot and squirrels getting run over,” said one cop. “A flat tire is not the crime of the century."

To summarize: If you're a motorist whose car is touched by a pedestrian or cyclist whom you almost run over, NYPD is at your service. If you're a cyclist who crashes to the pavement because of a malicious malcontent, cops are otherwise occupied seeking justice for dead squirrels.

Perhaps the department's Accident Investigation Squad could use a new handle. Assisting Injured Squirrels? Already Investigating Squirrels?

Nice to know they're investigating something.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

AGENDA 2026: The New Mayor Must Revolutionize NYC’s Streets

We've already offered the low-hanging fruit that the new mayor could accomplish on Day 1. Now, it's time to roll up the sleeves for our big list.

November 5, 2025

AGENDA 2026: Mayor Mamdani Must Sustain The City’s Bike Boom

The newly christened mayor may have only won a narrow mandate last night, but an ongoing cycling boom gives him maneuverability to build bike lanes.

November 5, 2025

Wednesday’s Headlines: Shiny New Mayor Edition

You probably don't need us to break the news, but you (and incoming mayor Zohran Mamdani) do need Streetsblog to put it in perspective. Plus other news.

November 5, 2025

Is This the Death of the Walkable School District?

Election Day could bring the demise of a great American school day tradition.

November 5, 2025

Zohran Mamdani Wins — Let’s Talk Transit!

Streetsblog Engagement Editor Emily Lipstein is live at Zohran Mamdani's victory party. Let's talk transit!

November 4, 2025

DECISION 2025: Brooklyn Printer Celebrates a ‘Cyclist’ Democratic Nominee

"We have the ink and we have the means of production," said a printer about his hot new Zohran Mamdani poster.

November 4, 2025
See all posts