Viral 'speed running' challenge hits Church of Scientology New York
A group of individuals forcibly entered the Church of Scientology in New York City on Saturday, causing property damage and injuring a staff member. The incident, linked to a viral 'speed running' trend originating from similar stunts at the church's Hollywood location, involved around 30 people who fled before police arrived. No arrests have been made, and the church is cooperating with the NYPD investigation.
- ▪A group broke through a locked door to enter the Church of Scientology in midtown Manhattan.
- ▪Property was damaged, objects were thrown, and a staff member was kicked in the leg, requiring medical attention.
- ▪The incident is connected to a viral 'speed running' trend involving similar stunts at the Church of Scientology's Hollywood building.
- ▪Social media videos show individuals rushing through hallways and grabbing items inside the New York church.
- ▪The NYPD responded to a burglary call but no arrests were made as the suspects fled in an unknown direction.
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Culture & TrendsViral 'speed running' challenge hits Church of Scientology New YorkThe Church of Scientology reported property damage and a staff injury following the incident on Saturday. The NYPD said no arrests have been made.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00The Church of Scientology of New York in 2017. On Saturday, a group of individuals gained entry to the midtown Manhattan church after breaking through a locked door.Sachelle Babbar / ZUMA Press Wire via ReutersShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 3, 2026, 4:54 PM EDTBy Joe KottkeAfter weeks of viral “speed running” videos filmed at the Church of Scientology’s Hollywood building have garnered millions of views, a similar stunt appears to have been attempted in New York.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited…
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