Man charged with arson for detonating explosive device at New York federal building

A 43-year-old U.S. Army veteran, Andrew Arrabaca, faces charges of arson after allegedly detonating a homemade incendiary device outside a federal building in New York City. The incident occurred on July 21, near the Federal Plaza building housing agencies like the FBI and ICE.

During his first court appearance, prosecutors argued for Arrabaca to be held without bail, describing him as an "anti-American and anti-government extremist." They detailed how he arrived at the building, poured gasoline, and ignited it with a lighter and a firecracker, causing a significant flame. He also reportedly fired airsoft pellets from a rifle, injuring two public employees and a civilian.

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The crime he is accused of is concerning. This was not something that happened on a Sunday when no one was in the building.

According to the FBI, Arrabaca had been planning the attack since January, acquiring weapons and materials. He was found with axes, a hammer, a machete, knives, and flyers targeting ICE. His defense attorney, however, suggested Arrabaca has an "underlying mental health issue." The judge ordered a mental health evaluation and scheduled the next hearing for August 4.

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has an underlying mental health issue