On Monday morning, a man was apprehended following an explosion, fire, and an alleged gunfire incident outside of 26 Federal Plaza which is a federal office building that accommodates the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) offices, immigration courts, and other federal offices.
As per the law enforcement authorities and the available video footage, the incident occurred at around 8:30 am. Eyewitnesses have claimed to have heard a loud explosion followed by smoke and fire near the entrance of the building.
The investigators stated that the suspect was accused of using an incendiary machine, igniting fires and using fireworks to threaten the people. The authorities discovered the evidence that looked like firearms, though later accounts say that it was probably airsoft rifles. Apparently, the man was told to carry a cart with long rifle-like weapons, fireworks, and other devices.
BREAKING: An explosion and shooting outside 26 Federal Plaza in NYC prompted an evacuation and massive law enforcement response. A suspect was taken into custody. pic.twitter.com/groiiu8oG3
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 20, 2026
Videos shared by bystanders showed a large plume of smoke rising outside the federal building as NYPD officers and federal agents quickly moved in and detained the suspect at the scene.
One person sustained slight injuries and was sent to a medical center for treatment. According to officials, no severe injuries were reported. The investigation has been handed over to the FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force. The FBI stated: “This morning someone used an incendiary device outside of 26 Federal Plaza. The individual is in custody, and the FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force has started the investigation.”
JUST IN: Man detained after apparent ‘explosion’ and ‘shooting’ outside NYC’s 26 Federal Plaza, home to ICE and other federal agencies📹 Cristina Panagi/Instagram pic.twitter.com/djhFddtkP0
— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) July 20, 2026
Authorities have not yet publicly identified the suspect. Law enforcement sources said the individual was already known to authorities because of previous anti-ICE activity and possible involvement in protests. He is currently in federal custody.
There have been prior protests at Federal Plaza against immigration enforcement and security incidents as well. Investigation details regarding the suspect’s background, objective, and the devices and weapons discovered have not been revealed so far. The investigation isn’t concluded yet but further updates. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information, including any federal charges and the suspect’s identity, is expected to be released by officials at a later stage.