Federal Plaza became the focus of a major federal investigation after authorities responded to an alleged incendiary device incident outside a government building. Meanwhile, investigators continue gathering evidence to determine the full circumstances surrounding the event.
Federal authorities identified the suspect as Andrew Arrabaca following the incident outside 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan. According to investigators, officers quickly detained the suspect shortly after the alleged attack and secured the surrounding area.
Law enforcement officials stated that investigators recovered material containing anti-ICE messages from the suspect during the arrest. Additionally, authorities continue reviewing the recovered items as part of the ongoing criminal investigation.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed that its Joint Terrorism Task Force assumed responsibility for examining the incident. Furthermore, investigators continue working with local and federal agencies to establish the sequence of events.
According to federal officials, the suspect allegedly poured an unidentified liquid near the building entrance before igniting fireworks. Consequently, the combination created a small fire that emergency responders quickly brought under control.
Investigators also reported that officers recovered two pellet guns from the suspect’s belongings after taking him into custody. Moreover, authorities stated that they located a written manifesto among the items seized during the arrest.
Officials said two people suffered minor injuries during the incident, including a federal employee and a civilian. However, medical personnel treated both individuals before releasing them without requiring extended hospitalization.
Authorities emphasized that emergency responders quickly secured the location to prevent additional injuries or property damage. As a result, investigators immediately began collecting evidence from the scene while maintaining public safety.
Federal Plaza houses several government offices, including a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services facility. Therefore, investigators continue examining whether the location influenced the suspect’s alleged actions.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge James Barnacle Jr. explained that the suspect allegedly placed liquid on the ground before igniting fireworks. He also stated that the resulting flames remained limited before officers rapidly intervened and stopped the situation.
Federal officials confirmed that security personnel tackled and restrained the suspect during the incident. Consequently, officers prevented the fire from spreading further while protecting nearby employees and visitors.
The Department of Homeland Security stated that investigators believe the liquid may have been gasoline. However, authorities continue testing physical evidence before confirming the exact substance involved in the alleged attack.
Officials also stated that investigators continue reviewing the recovered manifesto and other materials collected at the scene. Meanwhile, forensic specialists are analyzing additional evidence to support the ongoing investigation.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the incident as deeply disturbing while expressing relief that no one suffered serious injuries. Furthermore, he pledged that city officials would continue cooperating with federal investigators throughout the case.
City officials confirmed they remain in communication with federal law enforcement agencies following the incident. Additionally, local authorities pledged continued support for efforts to protect residents and maintain public safety.
Federal Plaza remains at the center of an active investigation as authorities continue examining every aspect of the alleged attack. Ultimately, investigators expect additional findings to emerge as forensic testing, witness interviews, and evidence reviews continue in the coming days.
