The NYPD was called to the TKTS booth at 46th Street and Broadway in Manhattan just after 7:30 a.m., where the man was standing at the top of the stand.
The man was dancing and parading around at the top of the red stairs, and at one point could be heard making political statements.
Video of the ordeal was streamed live on various social media channels. Watch this blurred, safe-for-work version here:
He could also be seen spitting on and taunting the officers who attempted to get him down.
He's doing the worm now. This TKTS Booth promo is amazing. pic.twitter.com/ERvBljPyX8
— Slade Sohmer (@Slade) June 30, 2016
The NYPD tried to talk with the 21-year-old man from Manhattan, but he was combative and incoherent. The hostage negotiation team also responded to the scene.
Naked dude + NYPD + Times Square + live Periscope + cops about to do Lethal Weapon move? https://t.co/r3Jq4GD1NG pic.twitter.com/2qCnqsKaAk
— Slade Sohmer (@Slade) June 30, 2016
He was eventually cornered on the roof of the TKTS booth, and as he tried to run away while spitting and swinging his arms, he fell to the street.
The police had set up an air bag to catch him, but he narrowly missed it as he fell.
Loud gasps as the Naked Guy in Times Square fell. Couldn't tell if he made the air pad. Looks like a miss. pic.twitter.com/hhk5To02Jl
— (((B.))) (@knicks148) June 30, 2016
He sustained minor injuries, according to police.
The was taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment of psych evaluation and injuries sustained in the fall.