A significant security threat emerged near New York City’s Gracie Mansion, as recently released footage showcases officers bravely subduing a suspect who allegedly threw a homemade explosive.
Identified as Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, from Newtown, Pennsylvania, and Emir Balat, 18, these individuals reportedly launched live explosives into a crowd protesting outside Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s home on March 7. Federal officials confirm they arrived from Bucks County.
The video obtained from FreedomNews.TV captures the mayhem. A NYPD officer tackles Balat as the police chief urgently instructs, “Get him.” Moments later, someone in the crowd shouts “bomb,” prompting an immediate police response.
Prosecutors reveal images that show the duo manipulating what officials have determined to be an explosive device made with TATP, enhanced with nuts and bolts secured by duct tape.
Following his arrest, Balat allegedly made disturbing remarks, expressing a desire for his attack to be “bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing.”
Police leaders emphasize the seriousness of the threat.
“This is being investigated as an act of ISIS-inspired terrorism,” stated NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
WATCH:
🚨 WOW! New footage just dropped of ABSOLUTE HERO NYPD officers pummeling the attempted Muslim bomber during an anti-Islam protest in NYC
Bless these PATRIOTS who protected their citizens with bravery 👏🏻
Their names:
– Chief Aaron Edwards
– Officer Grant Pulgarin
– Sergeant… pic.twitter.com/JAqiD4bTKK— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 18, 2026
Federal prosecutors also claim that Balat signed a written pledge to ISIS after his apprehension. His message reportedly included, “All praise is due to Allah lord of all worlds! I pledge my allegiance to the Islamic State. We take action.”
The investigation quickly escalated beyond New York City.
While searching a storage unit linked to the case in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, agents discovered explosive materials, according to officials.
“Yesterday’s search at the storage unit associated with the Gracie Mansion event uncovered explosive residue. FBI Special Agent Bomb Technicians and local bomb squads undertook a controlled detonation to ensure safety for law enforcement and nearby individuals. We’re grateful for the help from the FBI Philadelphia Field Office, as well as local agencies from Middletown and Newton, who worked with us throughout the night,” the FBI New York office shared on X.
Authorities indicate that Balat purchased bomb-making components just days prior to the incident. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators captured him buying a 20-foot roll of fuse from Phantom Fireworks in Penndel, Pennsylvania, on March 2.
