Fireworks explode outside of NYC's immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza; 1 in custody
FBI update on incendiary device at NYC's 26 Federal Plaza
The FBI and NYPD gave an update on the investigation after a man ignited gasoline and a firework outside 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan.
NEW YORK CITY - The NYPD is investigating on Monday morning after authorities said a man lit fireworks outside 26 Federal Plaza, the federal immigration court in New York City, and injured two people.
What we know:
Authorities said the incident was being investigated as an "anti-government attack." The FDNY responded at around 8:30 a.m. to reports of fireworks outside the building at Worth and Lafayette Streets, which also houses ICE offices and a short-term immigration detention center.
Fireworks explode outside of NYC's immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza
FOX 5 NY's Dan Bowens has the latest details.
Video showed a plume of smoke outside the building and authorities apprehending a man at the scene.
Federal officials said the man was taken into custody after putting down an unknown liquid, setting off some fireworks and causing a small fire. He was armed with a pellet gun, officials said.
According to reports, the fire ignited a garbage can or rubbish outside the building. There were no reports of a fire from inside the building.
One federal employee and one civilian suffered minor injuries, officials said. There was no indication of a broader threat at the time.
What they're saying:
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security provided this statement regarding the incident:
"At approximately 8:20 am, an anti-ICE rioter launched fireworks outside of 26 Federal Plaza, grazing a bystander and poured what is believed to be gasoline on the stairs of the entrance of the building and set it on fire.
An FPS Protective Security Officer swiftly tackled and detained the agitator, sustaining minor injuries during the incident. Officers quickly recovered the individual’s bag, which contained what appeared to be two pellet guns and a manifesto.
EMS, FBI, and the NYPD are on the scene. This is a developing situation, and we will update the public when more information is available."