The FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force is currently investigating an incident involving an incendiary device in Lower Manhattan. The event took place outside a building that houses an FBI field office and New York immigration court.
The suspect, identified as Andrew Arrabaca, was reportedly detained by law enforcement officers at the scene. According to two sources, Arrabaca had items related to anti-ICE sentiments on him during the alleged attack.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced that Arrabaca was taken into custody soon after the incident. “This morning an individual deployed an incendiary device outside of 26 Federal Plaza in New York. The individual is in custody and two minor injuries have been reported so far,” Patel noted in a statement.
James Barnacle Jr., the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI New York field office, stated that Arrabaca carried an unidentified liquid, which he placed down before lighting fireworks on top of it. This resulted in a small fire.
Initial reports indicated that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents played a role in the arrest. Barnacle noted that Arrabaca was armed with a pellet gun, and two people, including a federal employee and a civilian, suffered minor injuries. Both were treated and subsequently released.
The affected building in Lower Manhattan also accommodates a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office.
In response to the event, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani released a statement expressing concern. “What occurred outside 26 Federal Plaza this morning was deeply disturbing. I’m relieved no one was seriously injured and that a suspect is in custody. My team is in touch with the NYPD and we will support the federal investigation. Our administration will continue to ensure that every New Yorker is safe in their city and hold accountable any who threaten that,” Mamdani stated.
The situation is still evolving, and further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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