Two Fans Injured When Drone Operated for TNT Collides with Light Pole and Falls Into Crowd at Celtics Opening Night Celebration in Boston

During a lively watch party for the Boston Celtics’ NBA season opener, a drone operating for TNT crashed, resulting in injuries to two individuals, with one requiring hospital treatment.

The incident unfolded on Tuesday night when the drone, intended to capture pregame coverage, collided with a light pole around 7:30 PM.

Reports indicate it was flying between two trees when the mishap occurred, sending the drone tumbling into the crowd gathered at City Hall Plaza.

Investigation Underway

Local authorities confirmed that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now looking into the situation.

Interestingly, the drone was operated by CNN, which is part of the Warner Bros.

Discovery network, the same parent company as TNT.

Event Highlights

The watch party featured TNT’s live broadcast with Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley providing commentary.

Fans flocked to the plaza, many arriving as early as 4:30 PM to secure a good spot and enjoy the festivities, which included musical performances from Shaboozey and Benson Boone.

The atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly anticipated the moment their team would raise the banner for their 18th title before the game against the New York Knicks began.

Eyewitness Accounts

Yousef Kobeissi, one of the injured attendees, recounted the shocking moment to Boston 25 News, saying, “I heard a loud bang, and then something hit my head.”

He described his fear as the drone crashed, particularly noting the panic of those around him, including a woman who seemed about to fall in fright.

Another victim, Derek Scrima, expressed his surprise at the incident.

“I was completely caught off guard,” he told the news channel, adding, “It was scary because I thought I could have lost my fingers.”

TNT’s Response

TNT acknowledged the unfortunate event in a statement, expressing their concern for those affected.

“Unfortunately, there was an incident involving a drone and fans attending tonight’s event.

On-site medical and safety personnel immediately attended to the situation.

We are currently investigating further and wish all involved well,” the statement read.

Game Results

Despite the drone incident, the Celtics went on to secure an impressive victory over the Knicks, finishing with a score of 132-109.

The team is scheduled to face off against the Washington Wizards next on Thursday night, continuing their quest for another championship title.