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Surveillance Video Shows Bomb Suspect Buying Fuse at Fireworks Store
Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi arrested for attempted bombing at NYC protest
Published on Mar. 11, 2026
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Newly released surveillance video appears to show Emir Balat, 18, purchasing a 20-foot fireworks fuse at a Phantom Fireworks store near his home in suburban Philadelphia on March 2. Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, were later arrested on Saturday for attempting to set off homemade bombs at an anti-Muslim rally near Gracie Mansion in New York City. The men said they were inspired by the Islamic State group.
Why it matters
This case highlights growing concerns about homegrown terrorism and the ability of young people to obtain materials to construct explosive devices. The alleged plot also raises questions about security measures around high-profile public events and the mayor's residence in New York City.
The details
According to the criminal complaint, Balat and Kayumi drove from Pennsylvania to New York City and joined a group of counterprotesters at the rally. Balat was seen hurling a device with a lit fuse that contained the explosive TATP and nuts and bolts. The object extinguished itself without harming anyone. Balat then dropped a second object near police officers and tried to run, but was tackled and arrested. In response to police questioning, Balat said he hoped to accomplish something 'even bigger' than the Boston Marathon bombing.
- On March 2, Balat purchased 20 feet of fireworks fuse at a Phantom Fireworks store.
- On March 11, Balat and Kayumi were arrested for attempting to set off homemade bombs at a protest in New York City.
The players
Emir Balat
An 18-year-old high school senior from Langhorne, Pennsylvania who was arrested for attempting to set off a homemade bomb at a protest in New York City.
Ibrahim Kayumi
A 19-year-old from Newtown, Pennsylvania who was arrested along with Balat for the attempted bombing in New York City.
Phantom Fireworks
The fireworks store where Balat purchased the 20-foot fuse used in the alleged bomb plot.
Jake Lang
The far-right activist who organized the protest in New York City that Balat and Kayumi allegedly targeted.
Zohran Mamdani
The Democratic mayor of New York City and the first Muslim to hold the office.
What they’re saying
“We must remain vigilant against the threat of homegrown terrorism and take all necessary steps to protect our communities.”
— Robert Jenkins, New York City Police Commissioner (New York Times)
What’s next
Prosecutors will seek to determine if Balat and Kayumi had any co-conspirators or connections to larger extremist groups. The FBI is also continuing to investigate the source of the explosive materials used in the alleged plot.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the need for enhanced security measures and community engagement to identify and prevent radicalization, especially among young people who may be vulnerable to extremist ideologies.
