Andrew Arrabaca charged with using a device at 26 Federal Plaza

BREAKING: FBI Investigates Explosive Device in New York City

The FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force is currently looking into an incident where a suspect reportedly used explosives in Lower Manhattan. Authorities apprehended several individuals at the site, which is located outside a building that accommodates the FBI field office and the New York Immigration Court.

The suspect believed to have set up the incendiary device outside 26 Federal Plaza on Monday morning has been identified as Andrew Aravaca, two law enforcement officials shared with us. They added that Aravaca was in possession of material linked to anti-ICE sentiments at the time of the event.

According to the FBI, Aravaca was taken into custody shortly following the incident.

“This morning, an individual placed an incendiary device outside 26 Federal Plaza in New York. The individual is in custody, and two minor injuries have been reported so far. The FBI is investigating,” stated FBI Director Kash Patel.

James Barnacle Jr., an assistant director with the FBI’s New York office, elaborated that Aravaca had an unknown liquid with him, which he ignited using a firework, resulting in a small fire. Initial reports indicated that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers participated in the arrest.

Barnacle also mentioned that the suspect was armed with a pellet gun, injuring two individuals—one being a federal employee and the other a civilian. Fortunately, both were treated and subsequently released.

The building involved houses the offices of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani expressed his concern, saying, “What happened this morning outside 26 Federal Plaza was deeply disturbing. I am relieved that no one was seriously injured and the suspect is in custody. My team is in communication with the NYPD and will assist with the federal investigation. Our administration is committed to ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers and holding accountable those who threaten that safety.”