FBI Arrests New York Woman in Plot to Bomb State Capitol

Sun Sep 06 2026 07:37:05 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

U.S. authorities detain a woman accused of planning a bombing at New York’s statehouse, citing ties to ISIS and prior surveillance.

The FBI arrested Jessica Bowie, 35, after the investigation uncovered evidence that she pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and plotted a bombing of the New York State Capitol in Albany. Prosecutors alleged Bowie conducted multiple reconnaissance missions, carried a fake bomb and a defective gun provided by undercover agents, and used a DoorDash bag to conceal explosives. She was also found with knives, a written oath of allegiance, and had discussed her plans with FBI informants. Bowie’s social media activity was flagged for anti‑American content and praise of the September 11 attacks. The case underscores heightened vigilance against domestic terrorism amid rising political violence.

FBI arrests woman over alleged plot to bomb New York state capitol building

By Max Matza, 2 hours ago

The FBI has arrested Jessica Bowie, 35, after a long‑running investigation uncovered evidence that she pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group and plotted a bombing of the New York State Capitol in Albany, New York.

Bowie reportedly conducted several reconnaissance missions, surveying the capitol multiple times before the alleged attack. She carried a fake bomb and a defective gun—supplied by undercover agents—into the building. In interviews with agents posing as IS members, Bowie stated she wanted to "destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators," prosecutors say.

Law enforcement agents also provided Bowie with $200 (£147) to purchase bomb‑making materials from a local Home Depot store. Images of the shopping trolley bearing her purchases were obtained in the police supply‑chain raid. She was also carrying knives and a written oath of allegiance to the IS when she was arrested.

Social media activity was a key component of the case. The indictment notes that Bowie was a frequent user of platforms, where she posted anti‑American messages and praised the 9/11 September attacks. She allegedly expressed a transformation from "a little girl waving an American flag after 9/11 to now having stickers of the falling towers" in conversations with FBI informants.

Governor Kathy Hochul praised the FBI and New York State Police for their work, saying the state had stepped up security in light of increased political violence. The forthcoming legal proceedings will address the charges of providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization and planning a terrorist act.