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Queens Neighborhood Erupts in Violence as Car Meet-Up Turns Chaotic

Vandalism and violence during a car meet-up in Queens

Malba, Queens, November 24, 2025

A large group involved in reckless driving during an unauthorized car meet-up in Malba, Queens, led to violence against a resident and arson of a vehicle. The incident escalated quickly when local resident Blake Ferrer confronted the group, resulting in physical assaults against him and his wife. City officials condemned the violence and emphasized the need for decisive action as the NYPD investigates the incident in response to growing concerns about unauthorized gatherings.

New York City

Queens Neighborhood Erupts in Violence as Car Meet-Up Turns Chaotic

A violent incident unfolded in the Malba neighborhood of Queens early Sunday morning when a large group of individuals engaged in reckless driving and aggressive behavior during an unauthorized car meet-up. The disturbance escalated into a physical assault on a local resident and the arson of a vehicle.

Details of the Incident

At approximately 12:30 a.m., a group of about 40 vehicles gathered on South Drive and 141st Street in Malba, performing dangerous stunts such as “donuts” and speeding over lawns. When Blake Ferrer, a local resident, confronted the group and requested they leave his property, the situation turned violent. A mob of around a dozen individuals attacked Ferrer, leaving him with a broken nose and ribs. His wife was also assaulted during the incident. Additionally, a security guard attempted to intervene by parking his vehicle in the intersection to block the reckless drivers. In response, two individuals approached the vehicle, threw an incendiary device inside, and set it ablaze. The fire was extinguished by firefighters, but the vehicle was severely damaged.

Community and Official Reactions

City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, who represents the area, condemned the violence, stating that the neighborhood was “under siege” by groups who believe they can take over the streets and openly challenge the NYPD. She emphasized the need for decisive action to prevent such incidents in the future. Residents have expressed concerns over the recurring nature of these gatherings and the escalating violence associated with them.

Background Context

Unauthorized car meet-ups have been a growing issue in New York City, particularly in residential areas. These gatherings often involve reckless driving, noise disturbances, and, as seen in this incident, violent confrontations. The NYPD has previously responded to similar events, with varying degrees of success in dispersing crowds and preventing violence. The recent incident in Malba highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both residents and law enforcement in addressing this issue.

Investigation and Next Steps

The NYPD is actively investigating the incident, reviewing surveillance footage, and seeking assistance from the public to identify and apprehend those responsible for the assaults and arson. Authorities are also considering implementing measures to prevent future unauthorized gatherings and ensure the safety of residents.

Related Incidents

This event is part of a broader pattern of similar disturbances in the city. In March 2025, a group vandalized three police vehicles during a car meet-up in Ozone Park, Queens. In August 2023, a large crowd gathered in Union Square, leading to a riot-like situation. These incidents underscore the challenges New York City faces in managing unauthorized gatherings and maintaining public safety.

Conclusion

The recent violence in Malba serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unauthorized car meet-ups in urban areas. It highlights the need for effective law enforcement strategies, community engagement, and preventive measures to address this growing concern and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

FAQ

What happened during the car meet-up in Malba, Queens?

A large group of individuals engaged in reckless driving and aggressive behavior during an unauthorized car meet-up in Malba, Queens. The situation escalated into a physical assault on a local resident and the arson of a vehicle.

How did the community and officials respond to the incident?

City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino condemned the violence, stating that the neighborhood was “under siege” by such groups. Residents have expressed concerns over the recurring nature of these gatherings and the escalating violence associated with them.

What is being done to prevent future unauthorized car meet-ups?

The NYPD is actively investigating the incident, reviewing surveillance footage, and seeking assistance from the public to identify and apprehend those responsible. Authorities are also considering implementing measures to prevent future unauthorized gatherings and ensure the safety of residents.

Have there been similar incidents in New York City?

Yes, similar disturbances have occurred in the city. In March 2025, a group vandalized three police vehicles during a car meet-up in Ozone Park, Queens. In August 2023, a large crowd gathered in Union Square, leading to a riot-like situation.

What measures are being considered to address unauthorized car meet-ups?

Authorities are considering implementing measures such as increased law enforcement presence, community engagement, and preventive strategies to address unauthorized car meet-ups and ensure public safety.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location Malba neighborhood, Queens, New York City
Time Approximately 12:30 a.m., Sunday, November 23, 2025
Incident Unauthorized car meet-up leading to violence and arson
Victims Local resident Blake Ferrer and his wife
Damage Physical injuries to victims; vehicle set on fire
Response Investigation by NYPD; condemnation by local officials
Similar Incidents March 2025: Vandalism of police vehicles in Ozone Park; August 2023: Riot in Union Square

Now Happening on X

  • @VickieforNYC (November 23, 2025, 1:25 PM): Councilwoman Vickie Paladino reports a large group from outside her district conducted an illegal street takeover in Malba around 12:30 a.m., where a security guard was assaulted while trying to intervene, and calls for stronger NYPD action to protect residents. View on X
  • @BreakinNewz01 (November 24, 2025, 1:05 AM): A Queens couple was brutally beaten and their car torched after confronting an illegal car meet-up mob on South Drive and 141st Street in Malba, involving dozens of reckless drivers performing donuts and speeding over lawns. View on X
  • @ScooterCasterNY (November 23, 2025, 4:15 PM): Firefighters responded to a security guard’s car set ablaze in the Malba/College Point area of Queens after he attempted to stop a street takeover involving reckless driving around 12:30 a.m. View on X
  • @HelenCasey1970 (November 24, 2025, 6:10 AM): A disturbing attack in Malba, Queens, saw out-of-control drivers doing donuts and speeding over lawns around 12:30 a.m., leading to assaults on residents on Sunday morning. View on X
  • @JaneScandurra (November 24, 2025, 4:18 AM): Responding to the Malba incident, this feels like an intentional and planned event amid increasing outside troublemakers in the quiet Queens neighborhood, expressing horror at the violence. View on X
  • @CyrusShares (November 24, 2025, 1:01 AM): Malba, once Queens’ quietest neighborhood, is now targeted by Honda Civic sport car gangs, possibly from outside areas like Dominicans, disrupting the area with burnouts and noise. View on X
  • @sleepylazybutt (November 24, 2025, 4:48 AM): The Malba perps are testing coverage gaps in Queens due to insufficient police, suggesting rich residents arm private security or turn the area into a gated community for safety. View on X
  • @nypost (November 30, 2024, 8:59 AM): A ritzy NYC neighborhood is experiencing surging crime, including daylight carjackings and brazen robberies, highlighting ongoing public safety concerns in the city. View on X

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The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.

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