Three weeks after a traffic stop in Memphis led to a violent arrest and death of 29-year-old Tyre Nichols, the nation is now bracing for the release of the video from the body cameras of the officers involved.

Protests formed on Friday night citywide, including in Times Square, where New Yorkers marched up and down streets calling for an end to police violence.

MORE: Memphis anticipates release of video in Tyre Nichols' arrest 

Mayor Eric Adams spoke with New Yorkers just after 5 p.m. Friday, expressing how much pain an incident of this nature is causing him and other Americans. 

“There’s a lot of pain right now,” said Adams. “I feel that pain… I feel betrayed by these officers.” 

Adams urged New Yorkers to respect the wishes of the late Mr. Nichols’ mother, which was to express any anger and outrage in response to the video in a peaceful manner.  

Adams also urged the NYPD to “exercise restraint” regarding any potential protests that may arise in reaction to the release of the video.  

The NYPD released a statement saying the following:  

“We continue to monitor the situation in Memphis. The NYPD continues to work around the clock to keep New Yorkers safe. The Department has examined, adapted and adjusted our response to protests and is prepared to protect the Constitutional right to peaceful protest, and works to ensure public safety for every New Yorker exercising their First Amendment rights.”