Improvised Explosive Devices Thrown During Protests Outside NYC Mayor’s Residence
New York City authorities are investigating after improvised explosive devices were thrown during dueling protests outside the residence of Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Two Pennsylvania men have been arrested in connection with the incident, with investigators revealing the suspects had been watching ISIS videos.
Incident Details
The protests took place outside Gracie Mansion, the mayor’s official residence, and involved a clash between an anti-Islam demonstration led by conservative influencer Jake Lang and a larger counterprotest group. According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, one of the devices ignited was confirmed to be an improvised explosive device (IED) capable of causing serious injury or death.
Two men, Emir Balat of Langhorne, Pennsylvania, and Ibrahim Kayumi of Newton, Pennsylvania, were arrested. They allegedly threw the devices, initially mistaken for smoke bombs, during the counterprotest. The devices are currently undergoing further analysis at the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia.
A third suspicious device was discovered on Sunday, prompting a limited evacuation of buildings near East End Avenue between 81st and 82nd streets as police searched a car believed to belong to the suspects.
Investigation and Potential Charges
The NYPD and FBI are investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, particularly due to statements made by the suspects referencing ISIS. Both men are expected to face federal charges.
The devices were constructed with homemade explosive material and fragmentation, including nuts, bolts, and screws.
Official Statements
Mayor Zohran Mamdani released a statement denouncing the protest and thanking the police officers who responded to the incident. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the devices were not hoaxes and posed a serious threat.
Additional Arrests
In addition to the two men arrested for throwing the devices, a total of six people were arrested during the protests. One individual was arrested for deploying pepper spray, and three others were arrested for disorderly conduct.