FBI Arrests Woman Over Alleged Plot to Bomb New York Capitol Building
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By Max Matza
Published 4 hours ago
The FBI has arrested Jessica Bowie, 35, a New York woman allegedly planning to bomb the state capitol building in Albany with the intent to kill lawmakers.
Prosecutors accuse her of previously pledging allegiance to the Islamic State group (IS) and charging her with providing material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organisation. According to court documents:
- Bowie had "repeatedly surveilled" the building.
- She was carrying a fake bomb and a defective gun, given to her by undercover agents.
- She told agents, "I want to destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators."
- Bowie allegedly selected Albany’s capitol because she thought it would be easier than targeting the White House.
- She planned to use a DoorDash food delivery bag to conceal her bomb.
Agents gave Bowie $200 (£147) to buy bomb-making material from a local hardware store, and she was arrested on Wednesday while carrying knives and an IS oath of allegiance.
Bowie is accused of being a "frequent social media user" who has espoused anti-American messages online, including praise for the 9/11 attacks.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul commended the FBI and New York State Police on her X account, emphasizing increased security measures taken in light of rising political violence and threats against public officials.
