Newly released video captured the dramatic moments Monday morning when a man set a fire outside a federal building in Lower Manhattan that houses U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), an immigration court, and several other federal agencies.
The incident unfolded outside 26 Federal Plaza, where witnesses recorded the suspect approaching the entrance carrying what authorities say was a container of flammable liquid. The footage appears to show the individual pouring the liquid across the building’s front steps before igniting it, sending flames and thick black smoke billowing into the air. Moments later, law enforcement officers rushed in and tackled the suspect before taking him into custody.
Federal officials identified the suspect as Andrew Arrabaca, a former U.S. Army soldier, who investigators say arrived at the scene with anti-ICE materials and an assortment of weapons. According to the FBI, Arrabaca allegedly carried fireworks, pellet guns, knives, axes, a machete, and what officials described as a manifesto. Authorities also recovered a sign reading “ICE Off Our Streets,” which investigators believe reflects the motive behind the attack.
Investigators say the suspect used fireworks and what appeared to be gasoline to ignite the blaze outside the federal complex. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has since taken over the investigation, describing the incident as an apparent anti-government attack targeting a federal facility. Officials have not yet announced formal charges, though the investigation remains active.
WATCH:
WATCH: Man with history of anti-ICE activity sets fire outside immigration court in New York pic.twitter.com/5ecbHUfEPP
— BNO News (@BNONews) July 20, 2026
The attack caused several minor injuries. Authorities said a Federal Protective Service officer suffered minor injuries while subduing the suspect after quickly rushing toward him to prevent the fire from spreading further. At least one bystander was also struck by fireworks, while another civilian sustained minor injuries during the chaos. None of the reported injuries were believed to be life-threatening.
Video from multiple angles shows smoke pouring from the front entrance as stunned pedestrians backed away from the building. Officers quickly secured the area while firefighters extinguished the flames. Federal Plaza was temporarily locked down as bomb technicians and investigators searched the suspect’s belongings for additional hazardous materials.
Department of Homeland Security officials said officers recovered the suspect’s bag immediately after the arrest, discovering what appeared to be two pellet guns along with written materials and additional items investigators are reviewing. Authorities praised the rapid response by security personnel, saying their actions likely prevented more serious injuries.
The FBI has not said whether the suspect acted alone, but officials indicated there is currently no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators continue examining the suspect’s background, writings, and online activity as they determine whether additional charges or federal terrorism-related counts could be pursued.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the incident, calling it “deeply disturbing” while expressing relief that no one was seriously injured. He said city officials are coordinating with federal law enforcement as the investigation continues.
