Two Suspects Charged in Bomb Attack Outside NYC Mayor's Residence, Aimed to Kill Up to 60 People

Two suspects have been charged in connection with a bomb attack outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The incident occurred on October 28, 2024, when the men allegedly threw a homemade explosive device at the property's gate. Federal prosecutors announced the charges on November 1, 2024, in the Southern District of New York.

The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Elijah Jones and 18-year-old Justin Reese, both from New York, face charges including attempted murder, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and use of an explosive to damage property. m. No injuries were reported, and the device caused minor damage to the gate.

recovered a notebook from one suspect that outlined steps to assemble and detonate the bomb.

The notebook specified the need for hydrogen peroxide, sulfuric acid, and a glass jar, along with instructions on mixing the chemicals to maximize lethality. The New York Times reported that the suspects wanted to kill up to 60 people, based on details in the notebook. Prosecutors presented evidence from the suspects' communications.

One suspect allegedly wrote in a message, "All I know is I want to start terror, bro," referring to the attack. The BBC News reported this quote as part of the prosecution's case.

“All I know is I want to start terror, bro.”

The suspects' motive appears linked to grievances against the city government, though specifics remain under investigation. Jones and Reese had no prior connection to each other before planning the attack, according to court documents. They purchased the chemicals from stores in Brooklyn days before the incident.

Law enforcement tracked the suspects through surveillance footage and purchase records. The FBI and NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force led the probe, arresting the pair within hours of the attack. Both pleaded not guilty during their arraignment on November 1, 2024.

The case is being handled in federal court, with potential penalties including life imprisonment if convicted on all counts. Prosecutors emphasized the attack's targeting of a government residence as an act of domestic terrorism. Mayor Adams addressed the incident, stating it would not deter city operations.

Security around Gracie Mansion has been heightened since the attack. The NYPD increased patrols in the Upper East Side neighborhood. No additional threats have been identified as of November 1, 2024.