Explosion outside New York ICE headquarters: Suspect arrested after fire near FBI building

A man was arrested after allegedly setting off an incendiary device outside a federal building in Lower Manhattan on Monday morning, triggering a fire that left two people with minor injuries and prompted a terrorism investigation.

The incident took place outside 26 Federal Plaza, a major federal complex in New York City that houses the FBI's New York field office, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), immigration courts and several other federal agencies.

According to a report by ABC7 News, the flames were quickly brought under control before they could spread to the building. The FBI and the New York Police Department (NYPD) are now investigating the incident, with the FBI's New York Joint Terrorism Task Force leading the probe.

Fire started outside federal building

According to the report, the suspect deployed an "incendiary device" outside 26 Federal Plaza before the fire broke out. Video shared online appeared to show the man pouring a flammable liquid on the ground and then setting it alight.

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Officials, cited in the report, said the flames spread rapidly but were extinguished before reaching the entrance to the federal building, where FBI personnel, ICE officers and immigrants visiting the immigration courts were present.

Police confirmed that two people sustained minor injuries during the incident. No serious injuries were reported.

Suspect believed to have anti-ICE history

Investigators said the suspect is believed to have participated in anti-ICE protests in the past.

According to the report, officers are examining a cart the suspect allegedly brought to the scene. The cart contained fireworks and airsoft rifles. It also carried a sign that read, "ICE Off Our Streets," the report said.

Authorities have not released the suspect's identity or announced any charges so far. Investigators are continuing to examine the recovered materials as part of the case.

Video shows quick arrest

Videos circulating on social media and aired by news outlets showed thick smoke rising outside the federal building moments after the fire began.

The footage also showed law enforcement officers rushing out of the building and quickly taking the suspect into custody. The man was later seen being escorted back inside the building in handcuffs.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the incident as "deeply disturbing" and said he was relieved that no one was seriously injured.

"My team is in touch with the NYPD and we will support the federal investigation," the mayor said, adding that the city would continue working to ensure public safety and hold accountable anyone who threatens it.

The FBI's New York Joint Terrorism Task Force is continuing to investigate whether the incident was an act of terrorism and the motive behind the attack.