Device Thrown at Anti-Islam Protest in New York City

Authorities investigating incident that led to arrests at 'Stop the Islamic Takeover' event

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A counterprotester demonstrating against a 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' event on Saturday lit and threw a device containing nuts, bolts and screws at the protesting crowd after someone from the anti-Islam group used pepper spray on the counterprotest, according to police. All three people involved have been arrested and an investigation is underway.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between anti-Islam groups and counterprotesters in New York City, raising concerns about public safety and the potential for escalating violence at such demonstrations.

The details

According to police, the incident began when someone from the anti-Islam protest associated with conservative influencer Jake Lang used pepper spray on a counterprotesting group near Gracie Mansion. Tensions then escalated when a counterprotester lit and threw a device, described as smaller than a football and wrapped in black tape with nuts, bolts, and screws, as well as a hobby fuse, into the protesting crowd. The device struck a barrier and extinguished itself a few feet from police officers. The same person then ran and was given a second device, which he dropped.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday morning.

The players

Jake Lang

A conservative influencer associated with the 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' protest.

Jessica Tisch

The New York City Police Commissioner who provided details about the incident.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who was not present at Gracie Mansion during the incident.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in New York City.”

— Jessica Tisch, New York City Police Commissioner (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The police investigation is ongoing, and the three people arrested will face charges related to the incident.

The takeaway

This event underscores the need for improved communication and de-escalation tactics between law enforcement and protest groups to prevent such volatile confrontations from occurring in the future and ensure public safety.