Device Thrown at Anti-Islam Protest in NYC

Counterprotester arrested after incident involving nuts, bolts, and screws

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A counterprotester demonstrating against an anti-Islam protest in New York City on Saturday 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 ongoing.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and potential for violence at politically charged protests in New York City. The use of improvised explosive-like devices, even if non-functioning, raises serious public safety concerns.

The details

According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the incident began when someone from the 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' protest associated with conservative influencer Jake Lang used pepper spray on the counterprotest group. A counterprotester then lit and threw a device described as smaller than a football and wrapped in black tape with nuts, bolts, screws, and a hobby fuse. The device struck a barrier and extinguished itself a few feet from police officers. The same person then obtained a second device, which he dropped.

  • The incident occurred late Saturday morning near the mayoral residence Gracie Mansion.

The players

Jake Lang

A conservative influencer associated with the 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' protest. Lang was previously charged with assaulting an officer with a baseball bat, civil disorder, and other crimes before receiving clemency as part of President Donald Trump's act of clemency for Jan. 6 defendants.

Jessica Tisch

The New York City Police Commissioner who provided details about the incident at a news conference.

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What they’re saying

“The devices, which Tisch said were smaller than a football, were wrapped in black tape with nuts, bolts, and screws, as well as a hobby fuse that could be lit. She said it was unclear if they were functioning devices or a hoax.”

— Jessica Tisch, Police Commissioner (wbal.com)

What’s next

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the three people arrested will face charges.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for law enforcement to maintain vigilance and de-escalate tensions at politically charged protests in order to prevent further violence and protect public safety.