Federal investigators are digging deeper into the backgrounds of two Pennsylvania teenagers accused of attempting a terror attack in NYC outside Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s residence during a heated protest over the weekend.
Authorities say Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, allegedly threw improvised explosive devices toward crowds gathered near Gracie Mansion on Saturday. The devices failed to detonate, but investigators say they contained dangerous explosive material and could have caused serious casualties if they had exploded.
The incident occurred during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan as an anti-Islam protest and a larger counterdemonstration faced off near the mayor’s official residence. Police said tensions escalated after one protester used pepper spray shortly before the first device was thrown.
According to investigators, Balat lit a device and tossed it toward the protest area, where witnesses reported seeing smoke and flames before it landed harmlessly. He allegedly prepared a second device with help from Kayumi but dropped it while running as officers moved in.
Police tackled Balat moments later, and both suspects were arrested at the scene. Officials said each device was roughly the size of a mason jar and packed with nuts, bolts, and other materials designed to cause greater harm.
Court documents say the first device tested positive for TATP, a highly unstable explosive sometimes referred to as the “Mother of Satan.” Bomb technicians later carried out controlled detonations, confirming the devices were capable of producing powerful blasts.
Investigators say both teens referenced ISIS when questioned by authorities. Kayumi allegedly told officers the militant group inspired him, while Balat reportedly wrote a statement pledging allegiance to the Islamic State.
Officials say neither suspect had a previous criminal record and that they were not previously known to federal investigators. Authorities are now working to determine whether the pair had any direct contact with ISIS or simply consumed online propaganda.
Searches connected to the case have also uncovered explosive materials at a storage facility in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where bomb squads safely disposed of the chemicals. Both suspects remain in federal custody and are scheduled to appear in court in April. The investigation remains ongoing nationwide today.
