'It’s scary.' Neighbors react after explosive device thrown during protest near Gracie Mansion
The mayor’s official residence is usually quiet, but on Saturday police say a protest turned dangerous when a device was thrown near officers and people gathered outside the mansion.
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Neighbors on Manhattan’s Upper East Side say they are still talking about what happened over the weekend after police say an improvised explosive device was thrown during protests near Gracie Mansion.
The mayor’s official residence is usually quiet, but on Saturday police say a protest turned dangerous when a device was thrown near officers and people gathered outside the mansion.
Authorities say the device was thrown during demonstrations near East 87th Street and East End Avenue.
For many people who live nearby, the scene was unsettling.
“It’s usually very peaceful and quiet over here, but now I’m concerned,” said neighbor Tricia Foley, who says she has lived in the area for about 30 years.
Police say the block has since calmed down, but officers and barricades are still visible around the area as the investigation continues.
Residents were seen walking dogs and going about their morning routines Monday, trying to get back to normal.
Still, many neighbors say the weekend incident caught their attention.
People who live near Gracie Mansion say protests are not unusual in the neighborhood because it is home to the mayor.
Jo, who has lived in the area for about eight years, said demonstrations have happened many times before.
“The BLM protests were here constantly,” Jo said. “This was different though. You noticed the difference right away — more units, different units.”
Some neighbors say they trust how police handled the situation.
“I feel very safe. We’ve got the best police department in the world,” said Tim Goodell, who says he has lived in the neighborhood for more than 30 years. “They did a great job Saturday keeping things calm.”
Still, some residents say knowing an explosive device was thrown nearby is something they never expected.
“It’s absolutely crazy and it’s scary,” Foley said. “I was going to do Easter at my place and now my sisters are like, ‘I don’t know if I want to go over there.’”
Neighbors say they have been checking in on each other since the weekend and sharing updates about what is happening in the area.
Police say six people were arrested in connection with the protests, including two suspects accused of handling the explosive device.
Investigators say the case remains active.
