Teenagers Allegedly Use Boat to Raid Iconic New York Amusement Park, Leave Trail of Vandalism and Theft

A shocking incident occurred at a Westchester County amusement park, where three young individuals allegedly invaded the waterfront park after hours. Law enforcement said the trio arrived by small craft around midnight, navigated the shoreline, and scaled a perimeter fence to enter the closed site. After entering, they damaged critical infrastructure, stole hundreds of prize items, and attempted further destruction before leaving.

The park’s communications system was targeted by the suspects, who cut or ripped out fiber-optic cables for phone and internet service. Their unauthorized trip included filling large bags with 200 prize display stuffed animals. According to police surveillance footage, two intruders attempted to lift a photo-booth unit over a boardwalk railing to dump it into the water, but failed.

The facility was damaged by tens of thousands of dollars, as officials called the act a blatant disregard for public property and community values, not a prank. The incident was publicly condemned by county leadership as a betrayal of resident and visitor trust. Police have shared images of the suspects and their vessel with law enforcement partners and are seeking public help in identifying them.

One of the three accused, a 19-year-old New Jersey resident, has surrendered to authorities and faces charges of burglary, trespass, criminal mischief, and petty larceny. Two more young men, aged 19 and 20, from New Jersey, have been identified and are expected to surrender. Police say the small boat used for access was returned to a Connecticut boat club undamaged.

This episode raises important concerns about security at municipal attractions after hours. Although park operators say the area is regularly monitored, the intrusion exposed perimeter defenses, surveillance coverage, and asset protection vulnerabilities. Community members still reeling from the vandalism worried that what could have been juvenile mischief had caused significant operational disruption and reputational damage.

Please report any information about the break-in or boat’s origin to the county investigations unit. Case remains open; suspects appear in court. Law enforcement officials prioritize accountability and property restoration during the investigation.

Sources
CBS New York
ABC7 NY 
People
Times Union