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A 43-year-old former Army mechanic appeared in Manhattan federal court Tuesday after being accused of igniting a fire outside 26 Federal Plaza, a Lower Manhattan building housing an immigration court, FBI offices, and other government agencies. Andrew Arrabaca did not enter a plea during the brief hearing, which followed his arrest the previous day on federal arson charges related to the Monday morning incident.
According to law enforcement officials, Arrabaca arrived at the federal building around 8:30 a.m. Monday and ignited a large firework before pouring a liquid accelerant that created a substantial fire near a building entrance. Video footage captured bright orange flames and a thick plume of smoke, along with federal agents restraining the suspect at the scene.
Beyond the fire, Arrabaca allegedly discharged five to seven pellets from an airsoft rifle at the building’s exterior, according to James Barnacle, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office. Upon arrest, authorities recovered two axes, a hammer, a machete, and three knives from the upstate New York resident’s possession.
Barnacle characterized Arrabaca as an “anti-American, anti-government extremist” harboring deep anti-ICE views. During the incident, Arrabaca made statements indicating indifference to injuring or killing people entering or leaving the building, whether federal employees or civilians, the FBI said.
Federal prosecutors allege Arrabaca planned the attack since January, purchasing supplies and surveilling sites throughout New York City during the preparation period. Defense attorneys argued for his transfer to a Department of Veterans Affairs mental health facility, citing documented mental health concerns.
Voter records indicate Arrabaca registered as a Democrat and held membership in the Working Families party. The federal building has become a focal point for demonstrations opposing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies amid intensified immigration enforcement efforts.
One of two people injured during Monday’s incident was an immigrant attending a hearing at the immigration court, according to FBI statements. Arrabaca has remained in custody since his arrest.
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