In brief
Reports have emerged that a former U.S. Army specialist triggered a fire outside the FBI, ICE and USCIS offices at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City. Using a pellet gun and fireworks, the suspect also poured an accelerant onto the building’s entrance stairs, causing a blaze that was quickly extinguished by firefighters. Three people suffered minor injuries – including an immigrant attending a status hearing – while the suspect was apprehended with multiple weapons, according to federal officials. The incident has heightened tensions at the site, a longstanding flashpoint for pro‑immigration demonstrations. Local authorities and federal agencies are investigating the attacker’s motives and potential ties to anti‑ICE groups.
A former U.S. Army soldier is now under arrest after an arson attack outside the FBI headquarters at 26 Federal Plaza, the federal agency confirmed. The 43‑year‑old, identified as Andrew Arrabaca, allegedly fired a pellet gun, set off fireworks and poured a flammable liquid onto the building’s entrance stairs, sparking a fire that was quickly put out by fire crews.
Federal agents handcuffed the suspect, who reportedly carried two axes, a machete, three knives and other weapons. Arrabaca’s actions caused three injuries – two government employees and a security officer, who was slightly wounded while tackling the arsonist – and also grazed a bystander.
The incident occurs amid escalating anti‑immigration demonstrations in the Lower‑Manhattan area, where the FBI, ICE and USCIS maintain offices. Attacks on symbols of federal authority have risen, reflecting broader protests against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
DHS officials labelled the suspect an "anti‑ICE rioter" and noted that he made several anti‑government remarks during the assault. FBI New York assistant director James Barnacle stated: "He is an anti‑American, anti‑government extremist." Arrabaca’s service record shows he served in the regular Army from 2001 to 2004 and in the New York National Guard from 2004 to 2005, leaving the force with the rank of specialist and without deployments.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the event "deeply disturbing" and pledged to protect city residents from such threats. The federal authorities will pursue charges, while the incident underscores the volatility of lower Manhattan’s protest landscape.
