New York woman arrested for plot to bomb state Capitol

On August 21, 2026, authorities reported the arrest of 35-year-old Jessica Bowie, also known as Aisha Saif, from Albany, New York. The FBI accuses Bowie of attempting to provide material support to the terrorist organization ISIS. She allegedly planned to detonate a bomb inside a food delivery bag at the New York State Capitol during a legislative session to maximize casualties among state senators and destroy official records.

According to the criminal complaint, Bowie, who converted to Islam approximately five years ago, was radicalized online. On May 28, 2026, she reportedly communicated via social media under the handle 'nusaybahsaif,' expressing support for the September 11 attacks and threatening to poison 'infidels.' She disclosed her plans to an FBI informant, specifying her intent to strike while the legislature was in session.

The suspect is currently in custody, and federal officials continue to investigate the extent of her radicalization and potential accomplices. Authorities emphasized that the planned attack was intended to destabilize the government, confirming that her operations were not limited to the reported targets.