New York Woman Arrested for Alleged Capitol Bomb Plot

A New York woman, Jessica Bowie, aged 35 from Albany, has been accused of planning an attack on the New York State Capitol, aiming to harm state senators. She had reportedly surveilled the building and bought bomb-making materials before being apprehended by the FBI. According to a criminal complaint, Bowie allegedly sought to support ISIS and had pledged allegiance to the group.

The FBI disclosed that Bowie conversed about using a DoorDash delivery bag to disguise the bomb and intended to strike when senators were convening. She converted to Islam five years ago, adopting the name ‘Aisha Saif.’ On May 28, 2026, using the alias ‘nusaybahsaif’ on social media, she communicated in Arabic with another user, praising the September 11 attacks.

Her plan took shape throughout a month, involving discussions with an FBI informant posing as an ISIS aide. Starting mid-July, Bowie expressed her intentions to produce explosives and identified the Capitol as her target, focusing on damaging the structure and harming lawmakers.

Bowie conducted surveillance around the Capitol and frequently visited the vicinity, examining its security. She allegedly made observations by having picnics and coffee breaks nearby.

On August 5, she visited a Home Depot in Rensselaer, spending $200 from confidential sources to purchase bomb components, including a large container of nails. Following this, Bowie prepared DoorDash bags to conceal the device.

On August 19, she met sources again, paying $150 for what she thought was a handgun with magazine and ammunition. The provided firearm and explosive were inert. Investigators state Bowie planned to flee to Syria post-bombing. She was arrested upon leaving the meeting, with knives and a handwritten note pledging allegiance to ISIS found in her possession.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated: ‘The U.S. Department of Justice and FBI announced the arrest of an individual who allegedly plotted an attack on the New York State Capitol. I’m grateful to the FBI for their investigation and the New York State Police for apprehending this dangerous individual. Earlier this year, efforts were made to enhance security at the State Capitol and across state government due to rising political violence and threats against officials. No immediate threat exists now, yet we will continue collaborating with law enforcement to safeguard New Yorkers and maintain community safety.’ Governor Hochul is scheduled to hold a press conference at 3:30 p.m.

Fox News Digital has contacted the FBI for more details on the unfolding events.