Two Arrested After Explosive Device Thrown at NYC Protest

NYPD says the device could have caused serious injury or death

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Two people have been taken into custody after an improvised explosive device was thrown during a demonstration in New York City on Saturday. The NYPD Bomb Squad confirmed the device could have caused serious injury or death. Police said the chaos broke out near the New York City mayor's residence, where two opposing groups had gathered - one protesting 'Islamic Takeover' and the other rallying against 'Nazis'.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and potential for violence at political protests in the city. The use of an explosive device raises serious public safety concerns and the NYPD's quick response likely prevented further harm.

The details

According to the NYPD, one of the devices extinguished itself steps from police officers, and the same person who threw it then received a second device from another counterprotester, which was dropped and did not appear to ignite. Two people were arrested on the scene in connection with the devices.

  • The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2026 near East End Avenue and East 87th Street in New York City.

The players

NYPD

The New York City Police Department, which responded to the incident and is investigating the use of the improvised explosive device.

Jake Lang

A far-right activist who led the 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' protest, and who was previously charged with assaulting an officer with a baseball bat, civil disorder and other crimes before receiving clemency from former President Donald Trump.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who condemned the protest as 'rooted in bigotry and racism' and said such hate 'has no place in New York City'.

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What they’re saying

“Violence at a protest is never acceptable. The attempt to use an explosive device and hurt others is not only criminal, it is reprehensible and the antithesis of who we are.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (Instagram)

“Our officers ran toward danger without hesitation, demonstrating once again the courage and dedication it takes to protect this city every single day.”

— Jessica Tisch, NYPD Commissioner (Twitter)

What’s next

The NYPD is working with federal authorities as part of the ongoing investigation into the use of the improvised explosive device. The two people arrested are currently in custody.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and de-escalation efforts by law enforcement to prevent violence at politically charged protests in New York City, where tensions between opposing groups can quickly escalate and put public safety at risk.