New York City officials confirmed that an ignited device thrown during protests near Gracie Mansion was an improvised explosive device (IED) capable of causing significant harm. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that a preliminary analysis by the Bomb Squad indicated the device was not a hoax or a smoke bomb, emphasizing its potential for serious injury or death. A second device was also recovered at the scene, and law enforcement continues to investigate.
The incident occurred amid dueling protests, one organized by right-wing activist Jake Lang against public Muslim prayer, with counter-protesters present. Tensions escalated when pepper spray was used during a confrontation. Approximately 30 minutes into the protests, an 18-year-old counter-protester ignited and threw the first device towards the protest area, followed by efforts to retrieve and ignite a second device, which was in possession of a 19-year-old. Both individuals, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, were arrested and remain in custody, with reports suggesting that they are U.S. citizens.
The NYPD is collaborating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the FBI through the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the violence and the use of explosives, stating that such actions are unacceptable and contrary to the values of New York City. He expressed gratitude towards the NYPD for their prompt response and indicated that his administration is closely monitoring the situation. Additional arrests were made for disorderly conduct and obstructing traffic during the protests.