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Bear spray empties 400-room Manhattan hotel, injuring 8, officials say
By
Charles Lane
Published Jun 29, 2026
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By
Charles Lane
Published Jun 29, 2026
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A dispute in a hotel room involving bear spray led to the evacuation of the 400-room DoubleTree hotel in the Financial District on Monday morning, leaving eight people with minor injuries, police said.
The bear spray was discharged around 8 a.m. inside a guest room at the hotel at 8 Stone Street, according to police. The dispute spilled into the hallway, where the bear spray spread as well.
Firefighters responded to a report of fumes inside the building and the entire hotel was evacuated, the FDNY said.
No arrests have been made and police said they were still searching for the person responsible. Investigators have not identified anyone involved or said what led to the dispute.
Eight people suffered minor injuries, according to the FDNY. Six were evaluated at the scene and declined further treatment.
Two service members, a 39-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman, were taken to a nearby hospital in stable condition, according to the NYPD and FDNY.
A hotel employee said the building was evacuated for several hours. A manager for the hotel declined to comment.
Police continue to investigate who started the dispute and what led to it.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
Tagged
manhattan
public safety
Charles Lane
Charles is a Day-of reporter focused on breaking news and enterprise. He’s very friendly and can be reached at [email protected], or more securely on whatsapp/signal 631-295-6715
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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