Counter-Protester Throws IED at Anti-Islam Protest Outside NYC Residence; Reports Conflict Over Target
Key Takeaways
- A counterprotester threw an improvised explosive device near the mayor's residence during an anti‑Islam demonstration
- Police found a second suspicious device and evacuated nearby buildings during the investigation
- Multiple suspects were taken into custody in connection with the improvised explosive attack
Attack at mayoral protest
A counter-protester threw an improvised explosive device during a far-right Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City demonstration outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's residence.
“Explosives thrown near New York City mayor’s residence investigated as ‘ISIS-related terrorism’ Explosives thrown near New York City mayor’s residence investigated as ‘ISIS-related terrorism’ NEW YORK (AP) — New York City’s police commissioner said Monday that authorities are investigating whether men who brought improvised explosive devices to a protest outside New York City’s mayoral residence were inspired by ISIS”
Reports located the incident at Gracie Mansion on the Upper East Side.
Sources say the attack occurred at the event led by far-right activist Jake Lang.
They say it occurred outside the mayor's Manhattan home.
The protest itself was described as sparsely attended, with a much larger group of counter-demonstrators present.
Suspicious device report
Authorities and bomb‑squad personnel examined the device.
They said it contained nuts, bolts, screws and a "hobby fuse."
One device smoked and then extinguished steps from officers.
None exploded, but the devices "could have caused serious injury or death."
Officials also reported a second suspicious device that did not ignite.
Investigation and detentions
Police detained two people in connection with the confrontation and said charges were pending or that those in custody had not yet been charged.
“Police discovered a new 'suspicious device' while investigating the detonation of an improvised explosive near an anti-Islam protest in New York, which led to the evacuation of nearby buildings, authorities said on Sunday”
Investigators are coordinating with federal prosecutors and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force as they probe the incident.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said investigators were looking into whether the devices were “ISIS‑inspired.”
Organizer profile and politics
The event was led by Jake Lang.
Reports described Lang as a far-right activist and variably said he faced prior violent-incident charges or Jan. 6-related charges.
Lang has recently announced a run for U.S. office, with one report saying a U.S. Senate run in Florida.
One outlet noted Lang was freed under President Trump's clemency.
Explosive device response
Authorities located a suspicious device inside a vehicle on East End Avenue, prompting evacuations and street closures.
“2 in custody after improvised explosive thrown at anti-Islam event in NYC: police A counterprotester threw an improvised explosive device at an anti-Islam demonstration in New York City on Saturday afternoon”
A Honda Civic was removed.
Mayor Mamdani publicly called the attempt to use an explosive "reprehensible."
Police said the investigation continued, and federal partners were involved.
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