NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — A lone wolf actor is the biggest risk to the Fourth of July festivities being held in New York City on Friday, according to multiple intelligence bulletins obtained by ABC News.
Both the FBI and Department of Homeland Security are concerned about the potential of a copycat attack following the deadly terror attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day, noting that the 2025 vehicle-ramming incident inspired by ISIS is reflective of foreign terrorist messaging that leads to attacks against Western targets.
The bulletins also reference celebrations in San Francisco, but in New York, officials are concerned about those “motivated by a broad range of racial, ethnic, political, religious, anti-government, societal, or personal grievances.”
According to the bulletins, those in the U.S. who could be inspired by foreign terrorist organizations are of greatest threat to law enforcement.
"Of these actors, US-based violent extremists supporting FTOs and [Domestic violent extremists] not linked to FTOs represent two of the most persistent threats," the bulletins say. "Lone offenders, in particular, remain a concern due to their ability to often avoid detection until operational and to inflict significant casualties."
The bulletins are dated June 23, 2025, according to ABC News.
The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks will be held on the East River, with city-sanctioned viewing areas at Brooklyn Bridge Park or Pier 16 and Pier 17 at The Seaport.