Ex-Army Veteran Arrested for Starting Fire Outside Manhattan Federal Building

A former US Army soldier has been taken into custody after allegedly starting a fire outside a federal building in Manhattan. According to the FBI, Andrew Arrabaca, 43, ignited the fire in front of the building where the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and US Citizenship and Immigration Services are located.

Incident Details

The incident occurred on Monday morning when Arrabaca allegedly shot a pellet gun and set off fireworks at 26 Federal Plaza. Federal agents tackled the suspect, who was armed with a machete and other weapons. Three people sustained minor injuries during the incident, including an immigrant attending a status hearing.

Suspect's Background

Arrabaca, a resident of Poughkeepsie, New York, served in the US Army from 2001-04 and in the Army National Guard-New York from 2004-05. He did not have any deployments and left the Army with the rank of specialist.

Official Response

FBI New York Assistant Director James Barnacle described Arrabaca as an 'anti-American, anti-government extremist.' New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the incident 'deeply disturbing' and promised to hold accountable anyone who threatens the safety of New Yorkers.

Investigation Ongoing

The investigation is ongoing, and Arrabaca faces charges related to the incident. The fire department was able to put out the blaze, and the area has been secured.