1 week ago

Woman Charged Over Alleged ISIS-Inspired New York Capitol Plot

Authorities arrested Jessica Bowie over an alleged plan to attack New York’s Capitol building.

The Capitol is in Albany, where New York lawmakers meet.

Prosecutors say she wanted to use a bomb to kill senators and damage the building.

They also allege that she wanted to destroy important government documents.

Investigators say Bowie supported the Islamic State and shared anti-American messages online.

The FBI says she visited the Capitol to study its security.

She allegedly collected bomb-making materials and considered disguising herself as a food delivery worker.

Bowie was arrested after receiving something she thought was an explosive device.

Officials said security was increased and that there was no immediate danger.

Key facts

Suspect: Jessica Bowie, 35, of Albany
Charge: Attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization
Alleged target: The New York State Capitol in Albany, which houses both chambers of New York’s legislature
Alleged objectives: Kill senators during a legislative meeting, destroy important documents and damage as much of the building as possible
Alleged preparations: Visits and photographs at the Capitol, security observation, a DoorDash bag and bomb-making components including nails that could be used as shrapnel
Arrest: August 19, 2026, after Bowie allegedly obtained what she believed was an explosive device
Security status: New York Governor Kathy Hochul said security was strengthened; officials reported no immediate threat