Overview
- A 44-year-old Brooklyn resident identified by police as Galymzhan Abaildayev climbed the north tower of the Brooklyn Bridge, placed flags or fabrics, removed his clothing and jumped into the East River.
- NYPD Harbor and Emergency Services units rescued him from the water and he was taken to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition after the Sunday afternoon jump.
- Police announced five formal charges against Abaildayev, including reckless endangerment, criminal trespass, public exposure, graffiti and disorderly conduct, with court processing still pending.
- Multiple videos circulated online show him holding a backpack, cloth or garment above his head during the fall and one flag that appeared to be Kazakhstan’s, but investigators have not confirmed their function or his motive.
- Officials are examining how he reached the restricted tower areas, the exact drop height and whether any bridge damage occurred, issues that could affect future security measures and any criminal case.