Federal prosecutors have unveiled surveillance footage depicting an arson attack on 26 Federal Plaza, a government building in New York City housing offices for the FBI, ICE, and other agencies. The suspect, Andrew Arrabaca, a 43-year-old from Poughkeepsie, New York, is accused of launching the attack, which involved fireworks, gasoline, and a BB gun.
Authorities claim the video shows Arrabaca dressed in camouflage pants and a helmet. He is seen pulling a cart with an anti-ICE banner before launching fireworks, pouring gasoline on the steps, and igniting them. Additional footage captures him firing a BB or pellet gun, throwing a box—later identified as containing more fireworks—into the flames.
He is an anti-American, anti-government extremist,declared James Barnacle, the FBI New York Field Office’s assistant director. Barnacle added that Arrabaca allegedly planned the attack with harmful intentions.
Arrabaca, a U.S. Army veteran, purportedly acted on anti-government beliefs, claiming authorities were unlawfully harming individuals. His targets included a staircase leading to an entrance frequently used by pedestrians. During the incident, three people suffered minor injuries due to explosive debris.
The suspect carried various weapons, including two axes, a hammer, a machete, and three knives. Investigators discovered additional incendiary devices, anti-ICE literature, and seized his vehicle for further examination.
Barnacle pointed out the Federal Building’s history as a potential target for extremists. Despite barricades and road closures, making it one of Manhattan’s most secure sites, the attack highlights ongoing security concerns.
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