NY prosecutors wrapping up case vs Pakistani scientist who denies shooting at Americans

US wrapping up case against Pakistani scientist

NEW YORK — Manhattan prosecutors are wrapping up their attempted murder case against a U.S.-trained Pakistani scientist charged with trying to kill Americans in Afghanistan.

Closing arguments are expected Monday at the trial of Aafia Siddiqui (ah-FEE’-uh sih-DEE’-kee). She calls the allegations “ridiculous.”

Federal prosecutors say Siddiqui picked up an unattended U.S. military assault rifle at an Afghanistan police station on July 18, 2008. She allegedly fired two rounds at FBI agents and U.S. Army soldiers. Authorities say she missed and was wounded by return fire.

Prosecutors say that when she was arrested, she was carrying instructions for a dirty bomb and a list of New York City landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty.

Authorities describe Siddiqui as an al-Qaida supporter. However, she is not facing terrorism charges.