Before that, "wolf packs" [see Diana Ross concert, Times Square at New Years Eve, Dick Button etc] had been the vernacular - but its use was halted as it implied that "certain groups of people" were somewhat less than human.
Oh, yes, let’s accept that wilding and wolf packs are raciss terms for what were horrific events in my city’s history.
Of course, as someone who actually endured the Diana Ross concert aftermath, I think it is appropriate to call a spade a spade; that was one night that ensured Giuliani’s election. Of course, freepers generally don’t like Mr. Giuliani.