NYPD Officers Commended for Thwarting Improvised Explosive Device Attack Near Gracie Mansion

NYPD Officers Commended for Preventing Deadly Incident Outside Gracie Mansion

The Incident

Mayor Mamdani and Police Commissioner Tisch on Monday commended two NYPD officers for their crucial role in preventing a potentially deadly incident outside Gracie Mansion.

During a protest on Saturday, 18-year-old Emir Balat threw an improvised explosive device (IED) into a crowd. He was about to throw a second IED, handed to him by 19-year-old Ibrahim Kayumi, when NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards tackled him to the ground.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Luis Navarro ran towards a second lit and smoking IED that Balat had dropped.

Official Recognition

Mayor Mamdani publicly thanked the officers, stating they "faced a chaotic situation that very quickly could have become far more dangerous." He added that their actions demonstrated "courage" and "selflessness."

Commissioner Tisch highlighted that Navarro ran towards the lit device "without hesitation and without regard for [his] own safety."

Both Balat and Kayumi are facing federal terrorism charges in connection with the incident.

The Officers

Chief Edwards, 44, has served with the NYPD for nearly 23 years and was promoted to borough chief of Manhattan, North in December. According to Commissioner Tisch, he was reportedly inspired to join the police force after witnessing the heroism of NYPD officers during September 11.

Sergeant Navarro has been on the force for 11 years. He was also promoted to his current rank last December. Navarro previously served in the NYPD's office of public information and on patrol in Manhattan.