Man arrested after incendiary device at federal building

A man was taken into custody on Monday, July 20, 2026, after deploying an incendiary device outside a major federal building in Lower Manhattan, prompting a terrorism investigation and a significant law enforcement response. The incident occurred shortly after 8:30 a.m. outside 26 Federal Plaza, a complex housing offices for the FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and federal immigration courts.

The FBI confirmed the individual deployed the device and was apprehended at the scene by Federal Protective Service officers. The agency’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation. FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Barnacle described the event as an anti-government attack on a federal facility.

Authorities said the suspect used fireworks and a flammable liquid to start a fire on the sidewalk. Video from the scene showed the man pouring liquid and igniting it, sending a thick plume of smoke into the air. The suspect was reportedly pulling a cart that contained additional fireworks, items described as long guns or airsoft rifles, and a sign reading "ICE Off Our Streets." Officials stated the man threatened pedestrians with a firearm before being...