New York Bombers Wanted Attack ‘Bigger’ Than Boston Marathon

The alleged Gracie Mansion bombers wanted to create an attack deadlier than the Boston Marathon bombing, authorities have revealed.

The Department of Justice brought multiple charges against self-avowed ISIS supporters Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, on Monday for allegedly attempting to “detonate two explosive devices” near Gracie Mansion, the home of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife Rama Duwaji. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the men hoped their attack would eclipse the deadly 2013 Boston Marathon bombing which killed three people and wounded hundreds more.

“These men allegedly sought to inflict mass casualties in service to ISIS with the hope of exceeding the carnage of the Boston Marathon bombing,” Blanche said, according to a Monday press release.

Speaking to law enforcement, Balat allegedly replied that he wanted an “even bigger” attack than the Boston bombing. “It was only three deaths,” Balat told officers.

The press release states that during a “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City, Stop New York City Public Muslim Prayer” protest outside Gracie Mansion, Balat allegedly “ignited and threw an explosive device” toward protesters.

After throwing the device, Balat allegedly retrieved a second explosive from Kayumi down the block. Balat appeared to ignite and drop it near several New York Police Department (NYPD) officers before running away. He was quickly tackled, and both he and Kayumi were arrested by officers moments later.