Counterprotester Throws Improvised Explosive at Anti-Islam Rally Outside Mayor Mamdani's Home

A counterprotester threw a small, homemade explosive at a far-right, anti-Muslim rally outside Mayor Zohran Mamdani's Manhattan residence, Gracie Mansion, in an incident police are investigating.

“Police investigating after device thrown at anti-Islam protest in New York City Police investigating after device thrown at anti-Islam protest in New York City NEW YORK (AP) — A counterprotester demonstrating against a “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City” event Saturday lit and threw a device containing nuts, bolts and screws at the protesting crowd after someone from that group used pepper spray on the counterprotest, police said”

Associated Press

The event was described as a "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" rally led by activist Jake Lang and drew a larger group of counterdemonstrators.

Associated Press

Multiple outlets report the device was thrown during a confrontation near the mayoral home, and no injuries were reported.

Law-enforcement preliminary analyses described the object as a taped, home-made device containing nuts, bolts, screws and a 'hobby fuse'.

The NYPD Bomb Squad's early findings suggested the device was not a hoax or mere smoke bomb.

Clarín

Outlets reported it smoked and then went out a few feet from officers after striking a barrier.

Authorities said a second, similar device was dropped at the scene and did not appear to ignite.

Authorities arrested multiple people and said charges were pending as investigations proceeded with federal partners.

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Haaretz

Reports conflicted: some said two people were in custody in connection with the confrontation, while others said three people were arrested overall.

The NYPD was working with federal prosecutors and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and counterterrorism detectives.

Outlets identified the event leader as Jake Lang and noted his past legal issues and recent political activity.

Reporters said someone associated with the anti-Muslim event used pepper spray on counterprotesters.

KYOU-TV

Outlets described a man identified by police as Emir Balat as the person who threw devices, and an AFP correspondent reported hearing him shout "Allahu akbar".

Mayor Mamdani condemned the violence.

Police said Balat was believed not to be at the residence during the incident.

One listed source, Haaretz, did not provide its article text in the material available to these summaries.