FBI foils major plot to blow up New York capitol and kill lawmakers, woman arrested
Warning: Graphic content, readers’ discretion advised
WASHINGTON, DC: Federal investigators, on Thursday, August 20, announced the uncovering of a disturbing plan targeting New York's state government before it could be carried out.
An Albany woman allegedly spent weeks preparing to attack the New York State Capitol, where she wanted to kill lawmakers during a legislative session and cause extensive destruction.
Authorities say the 35-year-old suspect had been radicalized online, conducted repeated surveillance of the Capitol and discussed obtaining a concealed firearm to fight back against police during the planned attack.
🚨 HOLY SMOKES. The Muslim woman who tried to bomb the New York State Capitol called the lawmakers "infidels," pledged to ISIS, and wanted the attack to send SHOCKWAVES through the American system
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) August 20, 2026
"Praise be to Allah for Sept. 11"
She fully converted to ISLAM and is seen… pic.twitter.com/fEsdEGxVKt
Major attack foiled by FBI
Jessica Bowie was arrested on Wednesday by the FBI and charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated violent group.
Investigators say she wanted the attack to have a significant impact rather than simply frighten people.
According to federal authorities, Bowie allegedly communicated with undercover investigators and a confidential informant while developing her plans.
She wanted to destroy as much of the Capitol as possible and kill lawmakers while they were meeting.
Bowie also allegedly wanted important government documents destroyed in the attack.
🚨 IT'S OFFICIAL: Jessica Bowie, 35, converted to ISLAM and swore allegiance to ISIS in multiple audio recordings in ARABIC — before attempting to bomb the New York State Capitol
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) August 20, 2026
This is insane.
FBI: "She said, quote, I want to destroy as much of the building as possible and… pic.twitter.com/4vQZX264OP
In conversations accessed by the FBI, Bowie questioned the point of carrying out an operation that might kill only two or three people.
Woman also allegedly plotted against the White House
Jessica Bowie also allegedly discussed attacking the White House, although she reportedly acknowledged that such an operation would be considerably more difficult.
Authorities say she arranged for an explosive device to be constructed and personally purchased several materials that could be used in making it.
Investigators also say she repeatedly visited the Capitol to study the location.
According to the complaint, Bowie conducted surveillance at least five times and took dozens of photographs while examining the building and its surroundings.
Thanks to the brilliant work of @FBIAlbany and our partners - this FBI stopped yet another alleged terrorist attack.
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) August 20, 2026
Last night the FBI arrested an individual - Jessica Bowie - who allegedly swore allegiance to ISIS and planned to carry out a deadly attack with explosives on the…
Authorities say she was also looking for a firearm that would be powerful enough to use during the operation but sufficiently small to conceal.
The alleged reason was equally alarming: Bowie wanted to be able to shoot at law enforcement officers if they attempted to stop her.
The FBI has also released an image showing a woman inside a store with her face obscured, which authorities say is connected to the alleged purchase of bomb-making materials.
Authorities also say Bowie repeatedly expressed allegiance to the violent organization she supported, including in audio recordings made in both English and Arabic.
