An Army veteran was arrested on July 20, 2026, after setting off fireworks and firing a pellet gun outside a federal building in New York City, according to law enforcement officials. The incident occurred near the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building in Manhattan.
The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Michael Smith, a former U.S. Army soldier, allegedly ignited fireworks and discharged a pellet gun multiple times at the building. No injuries were reported, and the building was not damaged. Smith was taken into custody without incident and faces charges including reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon.
Authorities said the motive remains under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest the act was a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Smith had previously expressed anti-ICE sentiments on social media, though officials have not confirmed a direct link to the incident.
The FBI and New York Police Department are leading the investigation. Smith is being held pending a court appearance. The case has drawn attention to ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and veteran mental health services.
