Former US soldier accused of fire outside NYC federal building

A former US Army soldier is in custody after setting off an incendiary device outside a federal building in Manhattan that houses ICE and FBI offices, causing minor injuries to three people. The suspect, identified as 43‑year‑old Andrew Arrabaca, fired a pellet gun, launched fireworks, and poured an accelerant on the stairs of 26 Federal Plaza before being tackled by security officers. Source: BBC Source: CNN

The incident

The attack occurred on Monday morning at the lower Manhattan building, which has become a flashpoint for protests against President Trump's immigration policies. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating. Arrabaca was carrying two axes, a machete, three knives, and additional fireworks in a cart bearing an anti‑ICE sign. Source: CNN Three people sustained minor injuries: two government employees and one bystander. Source: AP The suspect also suffered minor injuries. Source: CNN The fire was extinguished by the fire department. Source: BBC

The suspect

Arrabaca, of Poughkeepsie, New York, served in the regular Army from 2001‑04 and in the Army National Guard from 2004‑05. Source: BBC The Department of Homeland Security labelled him an "anti‑ICE rioter," and the FBI said he made "anti‑government and anti‑ICE statements" during the incident. Source: BBC New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the attack "deeply disturbing." Authorities are investigating his background for any criminal history or mental health encounters.