New developments are emerging in the investigation into a thwarted bombing attempt linked to ISIS near the residence of the mayor in New York City—and some of the latest details appear to contradict claims made by the suspects’ attorney.
Authorities say two teenage suspects allegedly attempted to deploy an improvised explosive device (IED) near Gracie Mansion on Saturday. The device reportedly failed to detonate, and both suspects were taken into custody before anyone was harmed.
Earlier statements from the suspects’ lawyer claimed that the two individuals did not know each other, suggesting there was no coordinated effort between them. However, new findings from investigators now appear to challenge that claim.
According to reporting shared by Bill Melugin, authorities uncovered evidence suggesting the pair may have worked together in planning the attack. A notebook discovered during a search of a storage unit in Bucks County, Pennsylvania reportedly contained notes outlining potential targets.
Investigators say the suspects had considered “soft targets” such as shopping centers before ultimately selecting Gracie Mansion. While officials did not find specific stores or exact locations listed for those additional plans, the notebook reportedly showed signs of coordinated planning that lasted more than a week leading up to the attempted attack.
Law enforcement officials have also been examining electronic devices belonging to the suspects in an effort to determine the full scope of their communications and preparations.
Meanwhile, new details have emerged about the officers who intervened during the incident. According to reporting by Phil Taitt, law enforcement personnel confronted the suspects in the middle of a tense protest and counterprotest near the mayor’s residence.
Officers later told reporters that in the moment there was “no time to think.” After spotting the suspects holding what appeared to be explosive devices, they moved quickly to stop them before the situation could escalate further.
Fortunately, the explosives did not detonate, and the suspects were arrested on the spot.
While the investigation continues, the actions of those officers likely prevented what could have become a tragic incident in one of America’s largest cities. Their quick response serves as a reminder that vigilance—and the courage of law enforcement on the front lines—often makes the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.
