Andrew Arrabaca is in custody and has been interviewed, said James Barnacle, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office.
Barnacle said he “came armed with bad intentions” and was looking to injure people. He had various weapons, including a pellet gun, knives, a hammer and a machete.
“He is an anti-American, anti-government extremist,” Barnacle said.
Arrabaca was quickly taken into custody after pouring gas on the steps of the building and then lighting the fluid on fire.
The lower Manhattan building, 26 Federal Plaza, has become a focal point for demonstrations against the government efforts to arrest and deport illegal immigrants.
Authorities say Arrabaca was carrying anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement material.
