NYPD Tackles Man Who Threw 'Ignited Device' Near NYC Mayor's Home During Protest Clash

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Dramatic video captured New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers subduing an 18-year-old counter-protester accused of lighting and throwing a suspected explosive device Saturday during dueling demonstrations just steps from Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The initial protest was organized by individuals associated with a pardoned Jan. 6 rioter, while the counter-protest was held nearby. Tensions escalated and a protester associated with the initial group used pepper spray against counter-protesters. About 30 minutes later, officials said the 18-year-old counter-protester, Emir Balat, threw an "ignited device" toward the protest area, before retrieving a second device from another man and attempting to light it as well. Balat and the other man, Ibrahim Nikk, were both taken into custody.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and potential for violence at political protests in New York City, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining public safety during such events. The use of suspected explosive devices near the mayor's residence also raises concerns about the security of elected officials and their families.

The details

According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the initial protest, called "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City: Stop New York City Public Muslim Prayer," was organized by individuals associated with pardoned Jan. 6 rioter Jake Lang and drew about 20 participants. The counter-protest, "Run the Nazis out of New York City: Stand Against Hate," took place nearby with roughly 125 participants at its peak. Despite NYPD officers separating the groups, tensions escalated and a protester associated with Lang used pepper spray against counter-protesters. About 30 minutes later, officials said Emir Balat threw an "ignited device" toward the protest area, before retrieving a second device from Ibrahim Nikk and attempting to light it as well. Balat dropped the second device on the west side of East End Avenue, and both he and Nikk were taken into custody.

• The initial protest and counter-protest gathered near East End Avenue and East 87th Street late Saturday morning.
• The pepper spray incident occurred shortly before noon.
• About 30 minutes later, Emir Balat threw the "ignited device" toward the protest area.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, including whether the devices were functional improvised explosive devices or hoax devices. Officers are also conducting sweeps of the surrounding area to ensure no additional devices are present.