Federal Arson Charges Filed Following Attack at 26 Federal Plaza

A 43-year-old Army veteran has been charged with federal arson following an incident early Monday at 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan. Prosecutors allege that Andrew Arrabaca targeted the facility—which houses immigration courts and naturalization offices—by igniting a flammable liquid, launching fireworks, and firing pellets from an Airsoft rifle.

During a court appearance on Tuesday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Samantha Fry stated that Arrabaca had been planning the attack for months, having purchased supplies as early as January. Authorities reported that Arrabaca was found in possession of several weapons, including a machete, axes, a hammer, and knives. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson also confirmed that a manifesto was recovered from the suspect’s bag at the scene.

Three people, including two government employees and one immigrant arriving for a hearing, sustained minor injuries during the event. Prosecutors noted that Arrabaca allegedly shouted derogatory remarks regarding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement during his arrest and carried a sign protesting the agency.

In court, federal defender Jennifer Brown argued that her client, a lifelong New Yorker with no prior criminal record, appears to be experiencing a mental health crisis. Brown requested that Arrabaca be released to a locked psychiatric ward at a Veterans Affairs hospital for evaluation. She suggested that markings on the helmet he wore during the incident indicated potential suicidality.

However, Magistrate Judge Robyn F. Tarnofsky denied the request for medical release. While acknowledging that the defendant appears to be ill, the judge expressed skepticism regarding his willingness to comply with treatment, noting that he had previously discontinued prescribed medication. Tarnofsky ordered that Arrabaca remain in jail, though she directed prosecutors to ensure he receives a mental health evaluation while in custody and to explore options for detention in a facility capable of providing appropriate care.

If convicted, Arrabaca faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison. Prosecutors argued that he remains a flight risk and a danger to the public, citing his current lack of employment and housing. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.