NYC Mayor’s Residence Targeted During Protests, Two Arrested After ‘Suspicious Devices’ Thrown

Latest York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s official residence, Gracie Mansion, was the site of tense protests on Saturday, March 7, 2026, as a far-right anti-Muslim demonstration led by conservative influencer Jake Lang clashed with counter-protesters. The situation escalated when a counter-protester threw a homemade device toward the demonstration, leading to the arrest of six individuals, including the thrower and a second suspect allegedly involved in supplying the device.

Clash of Demonstrations

The protests began around 11 a.m. With approximately 20 participants in Lang’s anti-Islam demonstration, titled “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City, Stop New York City Public Muslim Prayer.” This group was met by a larger counter-protest, “Run the Nazis out of New York City, Stand Against Hate,” which drew a peak of 125 demonstrators. NBC News reports that tensions quickly rose, with both sides openly shoving and kicking each other.

Incident with ‘Suspicious Devices’

During the protest, 18-year-old Emir Balat allegedly threw a homemade device at Lang and his supporters. According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the device emitted flames and smoke before landing near police officers. Balat then allegedly obtained a second device from 19-year-old Ibrahim Nikk and attempted to flee before dropping it. Both were taken into custody. ABC News detailed the events.

Device Description and Investigation

The NYPD Bomb Squad examined the devices, describing them as jars “a bit smaller than a football,” wrapped in black tape and filled with nuts, bolts, screws, and a hobby fuse. Authorities are currently investigating whether the devices were functional explosives or hoaxes, as it remains unclear if they contained energetic material. NBC News reported that the devices are being transported for further analysis.

Arrests and Reactions

In addition to Balat and Nikk, four other individuals were arrested: one Lang supporter for pepper-spraying counter-protesters, and three others for disorderly conduct and obstructing traffic. Mayor Mamdani and First Lady Rama Duwaji were reportedly safe during the incident, though a spokesperson stated the events were a “stark reminder of the threats they both face regularly.” NBC DFW confirmed the mayor and first lady were safe.

Lang’s Response and Background

Jake Lang, a Jan. 6 rioter who was later pardoned by former President Donald Trump, claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that he “survived an assassination attempt” by “two Muslim men.” He also brought a live goat to the protest, referring to it as “Mamdani’s second wife.” USA Today provided images of Lang and his supporters at the protest.

Ongoing Investigation

The NYPD is continuing to investigate the incident, and Commissioner Tisch stated there is no current indication that it is related to the ongoing hostilities in Iran, though the investigation remains ongoing given the heightened threat environment.