NYPD Chief Hailed as Hero for Chasing Down Bomb Suspects

Aaron Edwards says "Once a cop, always a cop" after jumping into action during a protest outside Gracie Mansion.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards was part of the police deployment at an anti-Muslim rally in New York City when a pair of accused ISIS-inspired bombers dropped IEDs in front of him. Despite the danger, Edwards didn't hesitate to chase down and apprehend the suspects, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, who now face federal terrorism charges.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the bravery and quick-thinking of NYPD officers, even in the face of potential explosives. It also raises questions about the rise of homegrown extremism and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such attacks.

The details

According to Edwards, he and Sgt. Luis Navarro were alerted to the suspects' actions and immediately began running towards them, issuing verbal commands. Footage shows Edwards hurdling police barricades to apprehend Balat as he tried to flee.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during an anti-Muslim rally led by right-wing agitator Jake Lang.
  • Edwards was promoted to commander of Patrol Borough Manhattan North in December 2025.

The players

Aaron Edwards

A 46-year-old NYPD chief who was hailed as a hero for chasing down the bomb suspects. He has been with the NYPD for over 20 years and was recently promoted to commander of Patrol Borough Manhattan North.

Luis Navarro

An NYPD sergeant who alerted Edwards to the suspects' actions during the protest.

Emir Balat

An 18-year-old Pennsylvania resident who is accused of throwing one of the homemade explosive devices at the protest.

Ibrahim Kayumi

A 19-year-old Pennsylvania resident who is also accused of throwing one of the homemade explosive devices at the protest.

Jessica Tisch

The NYPD Commissioner who appointed Edwards to his current role in December 2025.

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What they’re saying

“I always say, we're all cops, right? Regardless of rank, regardless of life, regardless of position, you're a cop first. Once a cop, always a cop.”

— Aaron Edwards, NYPD Chief (The Post)

“When you see danger, you have that cop in you. You react to it.”

— Aaron Edwards, NYPD Chief (The Post)

“Wrong direction, sir!”

— Edwards' wife (The Post)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the bravery and quick-thinking of NYPD officers, even when faced with potential explosives. It also highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in preventing homegrown extremism and terrorist attacks.