25 People Break Into New York Scientology Church
About 25 young people forced their way into the Church of Scientology in Manhattan on Saturday. They broke through a locked door to get inside.
Worshippers and visitors were attending a seminar inside at the time. The group threw objects and damaged property.
A staff member was hurt. A staff member was also called a racial slur during the attack. The New York break-in appears to be part of a viral trend called 'speed running.' Similar videos filmed at the Church of Scientology's Hollywood building got millions of views online.
Klear Note — Speed running is a viral trend where groups film themselves breaking into buildings. The Church of Scientology has faced similar break-ins at other locations.
Key Terms 3
- Scientology A religion founded in the 1950s with churches worldwide
- speed running A viral trend where people film themselves rushing into Scientology buildings
- Manhattan A borough of New York City, United States