Overview
- The NYPD bomb squad determined at least one jar-style device thrown near Gracie Mansion was a working improvised explosive packed with nuts, bolts and TATP and capable of causing serious or fatal injuries.
- Police say the episode is being investigated as an attack inspired by the Islamic State, with the FBI’s New York anti-terror unit actively working the case alongside the NYPD.
- A federal filing on Monday charges Balat, 18, and alleged accomplice Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, who are from Pennsylvania, including counts for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and use of a weapon of mass destruction.
- According to police and on-scene reporting, the individual who threw the devices shouted “Allahu Akbar” during a small anti-Islam rally organized by influencer Jake Lang outside the mayor’s residence, which drew about 20 demonstrators and roughly 125 counter-protesters.
- Six people were taken into custody, and a third suspicious device and similar materials found in a nearby car prompted brief evacuations before officials determined that item contained no explosive material; investigators reported no evidence linking the incident to the Middle East conflict.