PODCAST STORY

Tense Standoff at Mamdani's Residence

Swipe to explore

#NextBigWhat

Devices hurled during protest

A confrontational scene arises as ignited devices filled with metal parts are thrown near Mayor Zohran Mamdani's home amidst an anti-Muslim protest.

#NextBigWhat

Far-right protest targets Mamdani

Around 20 individuals, led by controversial figure Jake Lang, demonstrated against what they termed the 'Islamification' of the area, prompting a large counterprotest.

#NextBigWhat

Potential explosives under investigation

Authorities are examining whether the thrown devices, packed with fasteners and a fuse, were genuine bombs or elaborate decoys.

#NextBigWhat

Suspect's dramatic actions captured

Amir Balat, 18, was seen receiving and then dropping a smoking device amidst the chaos, leading to his immediate arrest by law enforcement.

#NextBigWhat

Crowd dynamics lead to arrests

In the ensuing turmoil, police arrested one individual for using pepper spray and three others for disorderly conduct, highlighting the charged atmosphere.

#NextBigWhat

Bomb squad's preliminary findings

Early assessments by bomb specialists suggest the devices could be makeshift bombs, raising the stakes of the confrontation.

#NextBigWhat

Mamdani's safety in question

Although Mayor Mamdani was reportedly not at home, the targeted attack raises concerns about public officials' security during heightened political tensions.