Federal and local authorities have launched a massive counter-terrorism investigation following what officials describe as an “ISIS-inspired” attempted bombing near the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
The high-stakes probe, involving the FBI and the NYPD, centers on the attempted use of two homemade explosive devices during a chaotic confrontation on Saturday.
According to New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the devices were ignited and at least one was hurled toward a crowd. While no fatalities were reported, Tisch underscored the gravity of the threat during a Monday news conference.
“We were fortunate that the devices used this weekend did not cause the kind of harm that they were certainly capable of causing,” Tisch stated. “But luck is never a strategy. Devices like these have the potential to cause devastating harm.”
Forensic analysis of the remnants revealed the presence of triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a notoriously volatile and dangerous homemade explosive often favored by insurgent groups.
The incident unfolded as a group of anti-Islam protesters gathered outside Gracie Mansion, sparking a tense standoff with a larger group of counter-protesters.
Two men, reportedly agitated by the anti-Islam demonstration, were apprehended at the scene. Police have identified the suspects as:
The investigation quickly expanded to the city’s Upper East Side, where officers intercepted a vehicle linked to the suspects. Using a specialized tactical robot, the NYPD Bomb Squad discovered a third suspicious device and raw materials consistent with the explosives used at the mansion.
Commissioner Tisch praised the “selfless” actions of two officers who intervened the moment the devices were lit, preventing a potential tragedy.
“The NYPD remains vigilant,” Tisch added, noting that counter-terrorism units are working around the clock to determine the full extent of the suspects’ affiliations and motives.
