Device ignited at Gracie Mansion protest was an improvised explosive, NYPD says
Device Ignited at Gracie Mansion Protest Confirmed as Improvised Explosive, NYPD States
During a clash of demonstrations at Gracie Mansion on Saturday, a device set ablaze by a protester was identified as an improvised explosive, as revealed by the New York Police Department. The incident unfolded as two groups engaged in opposing rallies, with tensions rising rapidly. Law enforcement officials reported that one of the two devices was ignited, leading to the arrest of two individuals.
Arrests and Suspect Statements
The suspects, detained in connection with the event, are currently in federal custody, according to an FBI representative. Both are being questioned by agents from the NYPD and federal authorities. One of the detainees explicitly referenced ISIS in his remarks to law enforcement, prompting officials to consider the possibility of a terrorist act. Further testing of the devices is ongoing, and authorities are collaborating with federal prosecutors to determine next steps.
“Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi were arrested on scene yesterday and are in custody in connection with this matter,” stated NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch in a post on X. She emphasized that the investigation is still in progress, with officials evaluating whether charges have been formally filed.
Mayor’s Response and Protest Context
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who is Muslim, was present inside the mansion during the incident. In a Sunday statement, he praised the swift action of law enforcement and criticized the original demonstration organized by conservative activist Jake Lang, labeling it as a white supremacist effort. “This event was rooted in bigotry,” Mamdani said, adding, “Violence at a protest is never acceptable. The attempt to use an explosive device to harm others is not only criminal but also deeply disturbing.”
The Lang-led protest, titled “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City, Stop New York City Public Muslim Prayer,” attracted approximately 20 participants. However, the counterprotest swelled to around 125 demonstrators at its peak. Police had initially divided the groups into separate zones, but the situation escalated within an hour. At 12:15 p.m., a protester from the anti-Islam group sprayed pepper at counterprotesters and was apprehended. Shortly after 12:30 p.m., an 18-year-old counterprotester “lit and hurled an ignited device toward the protest area,” according to Tisch.
Investigation and Precautions
Law enforcement is examining the suspects’ residences and electronic devices, as sources indicated. The NYPD’s bomb squad is also investigating a nearby area where the individuals parked their vehicle, searching for additional explosives as a precautionary measure. The incident occurred during the holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when Muslims worldwide observe fasting from dawn to dusk. This period is traditionally associated with spiritual reflection and the commemoration of the Quran’s first revelations to Prophet Muhammad.
Officials from Pennsylvania have been contacted to speak with the suspects’ family members and associates. The investigation continues to assess the potential link to terrorism, with federal and local agencies working in tandem to uncover more information.
Doha Madani is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News. Pronouns: she/her. Jonathan Dienst serves as chief justice contributor for NBC News and chief investigative reporter for WNBC-TV in New York. Tom Winter is NBC’s National Law Enforcement and Intelligence Correspondent.
