Sayfullo Saipov, 29, is the main suspect in what authorities are calling a terrorist attack, one that casts a new spotlight on the tumultuous republic in Central Asia that has been a prominent source of fighters for the extremist Islamic State group.

Saipov’s case underscores the complications of trying to predict which immigrants are likely to commit acts of terrorism. Investigators in New York believe Saipov turned toward extremism only after he left the country and moved to the United States, according to Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D).

In a statement Wednesday, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also offered condolences to families of the victims. Separately, the Uzbek Foreign Ministry said it is “determining the identity and citizenship” of the attacker, who was shot and arrested by police shortly after the assault.

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