A chilling scene unfolded in downtown Los Angeles Monday as a man now in custody allegedly launched a deliberate assault on a federal building, wielding homemade Molotov cocktails. Investigators are calling it a self-described “terrorist attack,” fueled by deep-seated anger towards federal immigration policies.
The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, attempted to detonate the incendiary devices, but thankfully, they failed to ignite. Authorities discovered he possessed additional Molotov cocktails, suggesting a planned escalation of violence. Remarkably, no one was injured during the harrowing incident.
Following his arrest, the suspect reportedly unleashed a torrent of rage at federal agents, accusing them of “separating families” and brazenly declaring his actions a “terrorist attack.” His words painted a disturbing picture of a man consumed by fury and driven to extreme measures.
The unfolding drama took an even darker turn with the revelation that, prior to the attack, the suspect intentionally set fire to his rented apartment. Firefighters responded to the blaze, and an arson investigator confirmed the use of an accelerant, indicating a calculated act of destruction.
The targeted federal building is a hub of government activity, housing offices for the U.S. Attorney and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It’s a central location for processing immigration cases, making it a focal point for those opposed to current enforcement practices.
Investigators detail how the suspect hurled one Molotov cocktail at an employee entrance, shattering the container and leaving behind charred remnants. A second device was thrown through a public door, landing amidst people waiting to pass through security – a terrifying near miss.
Each Molotov cocktail was crudely constructed, utilizing a breakable container and a wick for ignition. Testing revealed the flammable liquid within consisted of hand sanitizer or ethanol, substances readily capable of sparking a devastating fire.
This incident arrives on the heels of another disturbing event in New York City, where anti-ICE protesters were captured on video hurling trash cans and debris at law enforcement officers near a government building. Multiple arrests were made in connection with that attack, highlighting a growing climate of unrest.