Macy's hit as New York imposes curfew amid protests

New York City imposed a late-night curfew Monday that failed to prevent another night of destruction, including arrests after a break-in at the iconic Macy’s store on 34th Street, following protests over George Floyd’s death.

Video posted on social media showed people entering and leaving the store through its smashed up windows, objects burning in the street and police gathering.

Other stores were also attacked, with people breaking windows and leaving with merchandise.

The 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew announced Monday (03:00 to 09:00 GMT, Tuesday) comes on top of existing coronavirus restrictions against public gatherings.

But enough mayhem happened before the curfew took effect that Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted that it would move up to 8 p.m. Tuesday (00:00 GMT).

The destruction began after big crowds rallied in Times Square and Brooklyn on Monday afternoon and marched peacefully through the streets for several hours.

Americans have been gathering across the country to protest police brutality against black Americans following the death of Floyd, who was handcuffed and on the ground pleading for air as a white police officer pressed a knee on his neck for several minutes.