The FBI is investigating a violent incident at a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, where a man shouted political slogans and used Molotov cocktails, resulting in multiple injuries. The suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, is believed to potentially be linked to terrorism and is currently in custody.
Boulder Fire Attack Leaves Eight Injured Amid Hostage Rally
Boulder Fire Attack Leaves Eight Injured Amid Hostage Rally
A suspect shouted "free Palestine" while launching incendiary devices at a demonstration for Israeli hostages in Colorado, injuring eight individuals.
On a day meant for solidarity, chaos erupted in Boulder, Colorado, when a man shouting "free Palestine" attacked a gathering rallying support for Israeli hostages. Authorities reported that eight individuals, ages 52 to 88, sustained injuries during the incident at the Pearl Street Mall, known for its outdoor events, which occurred about 30 miles from Denver.
The FBI has classified this act as a suspected terror attack. The assailant has been identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national whose visa had expired. He allegedly used Molotov cocktails and other incendiary devices, leading to several people suffering burns and requiring medical attention.
Police officials received emergency calls detailing a man with a weapon and people being set on fire shortly after 1:26 PM local time, witnessed by numerous bystanders. Amid the melee, footage captured a frantic scene with smoke clouding the area and individuals trying to flee as the suspect advanced. Responses from law enforcement resulted in Soliman's arrest at the site.
Witnesses recounted that he had created a makeshift flamethrower and targeted the crowd directly while filming a chaotic background where emergency services attended to multiple victims. The Boulder Police Chief confirmed that the attack was intentionally directed at the pro-Israel group known as Run for Their Lives, which holds weekly demonstrations in support of Israeli hostages in Gaza.
Colorado’s Attorney General Phil Weiser denounced the act as hate-fueled violence, emphasizing that differing opinions on geopolitical issues should not lead to violence. Israeli officials expressed immense shock regarding the incident, labeling it as pure antisemitism and calling for decisive action against such acts of terrorism.
This attack marks a troubling continuation of violence relating to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, following recent similar incidents in the U.S., raising concerns about safety and security for communities targeted by hate-filled actions. The investigation continues as the FBI urges vigilance against such threats.
