A woman from New York is accused of plotting to bomb the New York State Capitol and targeting state senators. The FBI reportedly arrested her after she purchased materials for an explosive device. Jessica Bowie, 35, from Albany, was charged with attempting to support ISIS, according to a criminal complaint reviewed by Fox News Digital.
Authorities allege Bowie pledged allegiance to the terror group, discussed disguising a bomb in a delivery bag, and planned the attack during a senate meeting. Converted to Islam five years ago, she adopted the name “Aisha Saif.” The affidavit also details a conversation on May 28, 2026, where she expressed approval of the September 11 attacks.
The alleged plot spanned about a month as Bowie communicated with an FBI source posing as an ISIS facilitator, based on the affidavit. Starting in mid-July, she requested assistance in creating explosives and named the Capitol as her target, expressing a desire to damage the building and harm lawmakers. She allegedly began observing the Capitol soon after.
Investigators reported that Bowie visited the Capitol five times between July 21 and August 9, capturing photos and analyzing the surrounding area and security dynamics. She reportedly informed the FBI source of her practice of having picnics and coffee near the building to observe it closely.
On August 5, Bowie allegedly visited a Home Depot in Rensselaer, using $200 from a confidential source to buy materials for a bomb. Items included a large container of nails. The following day, she delivered DoorDash bags for potential bomb concealment, according to the complaint.
Further on August 19, Bowie met confidential sources, purchased a supposedly functional handgun, magazine, and ammunition, paying $150. She was also shown an inert explosive device allegedly made from materials she provided. Both the gun and bomb were non-working.
After leaving the meeting with the inert items that day, Bowie was arrested. FBI agents reportedly found knives and a handwritten pledge of allegiance to ISIS in her possession. Authorities claim she told undercover agents of plans to flee to Syria after the bomb’s detonation.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul commented on the arrest, thanking the FBI and State Police for their roles. She noted recent efforts to bolster security amid increasing political violence and committed to continuing close collaboration with law enforcement to protect the public. Gov. Hochul planned a press conference to address the incident.