Brooklyn, NY (May 31, 2026)

Police are investigating a pair of unusual overnight incidents in Brooklyn after groups of men were filmed removing manhole covers, entering the sewer system, and later leaving in vehicles.

The activity was reported in two separate neighborhoods, Williamsburg and Gravesend, several miles apart. Authorities have not said whether the incidents are connected, and no arrests have been announced in the latest cases.

One group was reportedly seen entering a manhole near Bedford Avenue and Hayward Street in Williamsburg at about 1 a.m. and resurfacing hours later. In a separate incident, several people were recorded near McDonald Avenue and Collin Place in Gravesend climbing out of a sewer opening, some wearing waders and boots. Video from that scene showed individuals removing dirty clothing and placing clothing or equipment into nearby vehicles before leaving the area.

The NYPD Emergency Service Unit inspected the underground system after the reports. City environmental officials also reviewed the sewer infrastructure. Officials said no immediate danger or damage was found, though entering the sewer system without authorization remains illegal and dangerous.

Investigators have not publicly identified a motive. Possible explanations circulating in the community include unauthorized urban exploration or attempts to search for valuables underground, but police have not confirmed either theory.

The incidents have drawn added attention because they occurred in neighborhoods with dense residential blocks and active pedestrian areas. Residents have raised concerns about public safety, particularly given the unusual timing and the organized appearance of the activity.

Brooklyn saw a similar case in 2025, when several men were arrested after allegedly entering a sewer system in Bensonhurst. In that case, suspects reportedly offered explanations involving cleaning work or searching for valuables, though investigators did not accept those accounts as verified.

Authorities are continuing to review video and inspect whether any underground access points were tampered with. Police are asking anyone with information about the latest incidents to contact investigators.

#BREAKING: Video footage obtained by Williamsburg 365 shows seven individuals emerging from a manhole at Bedford Avenue and Lynch Street early Friday morning. The unusual activity is part of a series of incidents reported over two consecutive days in Williamsburg. pic.twitter.com/s6sbCbtxyT

— Williamsburg 365 News (@Williamsburg365) May 31, 2026

Not only is this happening in Brooklyn, but also Williamsburg, Virginia.
Why are 7-8 young men, not homeless, going into sewers through manhole covers and re-emerging hours later? https://t.co/2USxFtUP5h pic.twitter.com/Hp61lnBIXX

— Booker (@RealBookerScott) May 31, 2026