The FBI has taken a U.S. Army veteran into custody after a federal building in New York City was targeted in a morning attack. Andrew Arrabaca, 43, allegedly lit a large firework inside a canister and fired pellets from an airsoft rifle before igniting a fire outside 26 Federal Plaza.
According to authorities, Arrabaca arrived at the employee entrance to the building around 8:30 a.m. and proceeded to carry out the attack. He was subdued by federal agents and police officers moments later.
Two individuals were injured during the incident, including a federal employee and a civilian. Their injuries were described as minor, and both were treated and released. The suspect allegedly shouted anti-ICE and anti-government statements during his arrest.
During an interview with investigators, Arrabaca allegedly stated that he was targeting the building and that he was okay with hurting or killing people going in and out of the building. Authorities found Arrabaca with several destructive items, including two axes, a hammer, a machete, and three knives.
At the scene of the incident, authorities discovered two airsoft rifles and a container with flammable liquid, which was affixed to the suspect's cart. A sign reading "ICE off our Streets" was also found on the cart.
Arrabaca served in the Army from 2001 to 2005 as a mechanic on Patriot missile systems. His last known address was in Harlem, where a Toyota RAV4 belonging to him was found and is being held by police pending a search warrant.
No charges have been filed as of Monday afternoon, officials said. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., both issued statements condemning the attack and praising the swift actions of law enforcement.
Mayor Mamdani stated, "What occurred outside 26 Federal Plaza this morning was deeply disturbing. I’m relieved no one was seriously injured and that a suspect is in custody. My team is in touch with the NYPD and we will support the federal investigation." House Minority Leader Jeffries added, "I am grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to stop an attack at 26 Federal Plaza this morning, for successfully apprehending the suspect and for keeping the people of New York City safe."
