Armed-fireworks attack outside NYC immigration court leads to arson charge

A 43-year-old Army veteran, Andrew Arrabaca, was charged with federal arson after fireworks were set off and a blaze ignited outside 26 Federal Plaza’s immigration court in Lower Manhattan. Prosecutors say he planned the attack for months, brought weapons, and shouted anti-ICE statements; a sign reading “ICE off our streets” was found. He confessed; two government employees and one immigrant were minorly injured. A judge ordered him jailed pending trial, with a mandatory minimum of seven years if convicted. Defense cited mental health concerns, noting a prior diagnosis and medication lapse, but the court rejected release in favor of detention for public safety. The case highlights ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and courthouse security.