Two Detained After Suspicious Devices Found Near NYC Mayor's Residence
Two individuals were taken into custody after suspicious devices were discovered near Gracie Mansion during an anti-Islam protest.
On Saturday, March 7, 2026, two individuals were detained after suspicious devices were discovered near Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The incident occurred during an anti-Islam demonstration led by conservative influencer Jake Lang.
New York City police officers were present at the scheduled protest near East End Avenue and 88th Street when, around 11:40 a.m., they were alerted to two suspicious devices in the vicinity. The NYPD confirmed that two persons of interest were taken into custody, and no injuries or property damage have been reported.
Images from the scene depicted a man holding what appeared to be a homemade device emitting smoke, though it did not explode. The individual was subsequently seen being taken into custody.
The protest, organized by Jake Lang—a conservative influencer pardoned for charges related to the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol—drew both supporters and counter-protesters. Clashes ensued, with reports of pepper spray being used. At least six people were arrested during the demonstration, including one for disorderly conduct and another for deploying pepper spray.
It remains unclear whether Mayor Mamdani or First Lady Rama Duwaji were present at Gracie Mansion during the incident. A spokesperson for the mayor's office referred inquiries to the NYPD.
The NYPD's investigation into the incident is ongoing.