NYC Mayor's Home Targeted: Two Men Charged with ISIS-Inspired Terror Attack on Saturday

Two men are charged with terrorism after igniting explosives outside the NYC Mayor's home. This is a serious escalation from Saturday's protests.
By Newsroom | Terrorism, New York City |

Two Young Men Indicted on Federal Charges Following Saturday Incident

Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, both from Pennsylvania, face federal charges including attempting to support ISIS and using a weapon of mass destruction. The accusations stem from an incident outside Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, where improvised explosive devices were ignited during protests on Saturday.

New: NYPD Investigates Gracie Mansion Attack As 'Act of ISIS-Inspired Terrorism' - 1

Authorities have characterized the incident as an 'ISIS-inspired act of terrorism.'

New: NYPD Investigates Gracie Mansion Attack As 'Act of ISIS-Inspired Terrorism' - 2

According to a federal criminal complaint, both suspects allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS in the presence of law enforcement. One suspect reportedly stated a desire to conduct an attack "bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing." The explosive devices contained triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a volatile substance, and were designed to "injure, maim or worse." A third device found later did not contain explosive material.

New: NYPD Investigates Gracie Mansion Attack As 'Act of ISIS-Inspired Terrorism' - 3

Details Emerge of the Event

The incident occurred amidst dueling protests outside Gracie Mansion. Mayor Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, were not at their residence at the time. Reports indicate that one suspect, Balat, allegedly retrieved a device from Kayumi, ignited it, and then dropped it near police officers. Neighbors reported seeing individuals outside with their hands raised.

Read More: NYC Mayor's Home Protest: Explosive Device Found Saturday, Two Arrested

New: NYPD Investigates Gracie Mansion Attack As 'Act of ISIS-Inspired Terrorism' - 4

Suspects' Background Under Scrutiny

Investigators are reportedly examining overseas travel for both Balat and Kayumi. Balat's attorney described him as an American-born high school senior. A federal complaint notes that Kayumi told authorities ISIS was the reason for his actions and that he had viewed ISIS propaganda on his phone.

Background

Gracie Mansion, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, serves as the official residence of the Mayor of New York City. The incident unfolded during a period of protest and counter-protest activity near the location. Federal authorities, including the FBI, are involved in the ongoing investigation. The charges against Balat and Kayumi carry significant penalties.

Read More: NYC MAGA Supporter Arrested After Punching Woman at Protest on Tuesday

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened outside NYC Mayor Mamdani's home on Saturday?
Two young men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, ignited improvised explosive devices outside Gracie Mansion, the Mayor's home. Authorities are calling it an ISIS-inspired terror act.
Q: Why were the men charged with terrorism?
The suspects allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and one wanted to carry out an attack larger than the Boston Marathon bombing. The devices contained TATP, a dangerous explosive.
Q: Were the Mayor or his family in danger during the Saturday incident?
No, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, were not at their residence when the explosives were ignited.
Q: What are the next steps for the suspects?
Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, face federal charges including attempting to support ISIS and using a weapon of mass destruction. The investigation into their background and possible overseas travel is ongoing.