Explosives Thrown Near NYC Mayor's Home Investigated as 'ISIS-Related Terrorism'

Police say the devices, which did not explode, were hurled during counterprotests near Gracie Mansion.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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New York City's police commissioner said authorities are investigating whether men who brought improvised explosive devices to a protest outside the mayor's residence were inspired by ISIS. The devices, which did not explode, were hurled during raucous counterprotests Saturday near Gracie Mansion during a "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" event led by the far right activist Jake Lang. Police are working with federal prosecutors and the FBI on the investigation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and the potential for violence at politically charged protests in major U.S. cities. The alleged use of explosives, even if they did not detonate, raises serious public safety issues and questions about security measures around the mayor's residence.

The details

According to police, two people are in custody for their alleged roles in the confrontation, but they have not been charged. The explosive devices contained nuts, bolts, screws and a "hobby fuse," but did not explode. Police say the same person who threw one device then dropped a second one that did not appear to ignite.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during counterprotests near Gracie Mansion.
  • Police say they "identified a suspicious device in a vehicle" on East End Avenue on Saturday evening.

The players

Jessica Tisch

New York City's police commissioner.

Jake Lang

A far right activist who organized the "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" event.

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What they’re saying

“I can confirm this morning that this is being investigated as an act of ISIS-inspired terrorism.”

— Jessica Tisch, New York City Police Commissioner (PBS)

“At this time, we do not have any information that connects this investigation to what's going on overseas in Iran.”

— Jessica Tisch, New York City Police Commissioner (PBS)

What’s next

Police are working with federal prosecutors and the FBI, which has assigned agents with the bureau's Joint Terrorism Task Force to the investigation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for heightened security measures around high-profile government buildings and officials, especially during politically charged events that could attract extremist elements.