Top Model Riot Breaks Out in New York

A near riot broke out in New York City on Saturday at the America’s Next Top Model audition, while people were waiting in line. Three people were arrested, and six others were hurt, amongst the hundreds of people involved outside the Park Central New York hotel in Manhattan. The panic left the street outside the hotel littered with shoes and clothing. Jessica Paravati told WNYW-TV:

"It was pretty scary."

Jessica said she was caught up in a stampede after waiting in line overnight, hoping for a shot at stardom on the reality show.

Two women and a man were arrested on disorderly conduct charges, police said. Authorities also shut down the audition, saying it wasn’t properly organized.

Four injured people declined treatment, while two others were taken to a hospital, the fire department said.

Crazy!

Saturday’s auditions were open only to women no taller than 5-foot-7, which is shorter than the industry’s conventions. There were a lot of desperate women in that line.

Gifty Asika told WNBC-TV despite the violence she would try out again:

"This is my dream, so I’m not going to give up."

Tryouts are being held this month around the country, including in Dallas, Chicago and Los Angeles. If you tryout be sure to wear a helmet, and perhaps some football pads too. Modeling is contact sport.

Update: It turns out that a car overheated near the line of models, then suddenly someone yelled “There’s a bomb!” and all heck broke loose.