Home / Crime and Justice / LA Man Arrested for Molotov Cocktails at Federal Building
LA Man Arrested for Molotov Cocktails at Federal Building
3 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Suspect accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at federal building.
- Suspect expressed anti-immigration enforcement sentiment.
- Suspect had extensive criminal history dating back decades.
A man was apprehended on Monday for allegedly attempting to attack a federal building in downtown Los Angeles by throwing Molotov cocktails. Authorities state that 54-year-old Jose Francisco Jovel was motivated by anti-immigration sentiments and reportedly made derogatory comments towards ICE officers during the incident.
The suspect was immediately taken into custody by federal officers. He was found to be in possession of five additional Molotov cocktail devices and lighter fluid, along with four knives and a Leatherman tool. Fortunately, the devices were not ignited, and no injuries were reported.
Investigators revealed that Jovel had set his Koreatown apartment ablaze earlier that morning after receiving an eviction notice. He is expected to make his initial court appearance soon. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security noted Jovel's extensive criminal record, which spans nearly forty years and includes serious charges like attempted murder and armed robbery.
