Terror Attack Rocks Boulder, Colorado, Leaving 12 Injured

Boulder Terror Attack Scene

News Summary

A horrifying attack during a peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, left 12 people injured. The incident occurred at Pearl Street Mall, where demonstrators gathered to advocate for the release of Israeli hostages. The attacker used a makeshift flamethrower and was apprehended by authorities. The incident has garnered a federal investigation as an act of terrorism, deeply impacting the Boulder community and raising concerns about safety and targeted violence.

Terror Attack Rocks Boulder, Colorado, Leaving 12 Injured

An alarming incident unfolded on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at around 1:30 p.m. at the bustling Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, Colorado, where a peaceful demonstration took a terrifying turn. The gathering was organized by the group Run for Their Lives, advocating for the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas back on October 7, 2023. Sadly, what was meant to be a day of solidarity quickly turned into chaos.

A Day of Peaceful Demonstration Shattered

The event, typically a routine show of support for the hostages in Gaza, became the target of an aggressive attack. Initially, it was reported that eight people were injured, but as the situation evolved, the total number rose to 12 victims, many suffering from burns and other injuries. The range of those injured was quite broad, with individuals aged from 52 to 88 involved, including a Holocaust refugee and a university professor, making the attack all the more shocking.

Details of the Attack and the Attacker

The suspected attacker, identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was apprehended at the scene. Authorities quickly moved in, and he now faces a troubling array of charges that include 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder, multiple counts of using an incendiary device, and a hate crime charge at the federal level. This ongoing situation is being treated as a targeted act of terrorism, with the FBI stepping in to investigate.

Witnesses reported that Soliman carried out the attack using what some described as a “makeshift flamethrower” while shouting phrases that showcased his antagonistic motives against the demonstrators. The aftermath revealed that he had brought along **16 unlit** Molotov cocktails and remained prepared with at least 14 additional incendiary materials found in his vehicle.

Victim Stories and Community Response

The victims of this tragic incident include both men and women, with some suffering severe injuries while others reported less acute pain. The Boulder community is reeling from the aftermath of an incident many deemed heinous, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemning the attack as an attack on the Jewish community and expressing deep concern for the impacted families.

Though some specifics remain to be clarified in the investigation, it appears Soliman had been plotting this attack for almost a year, conducting research on how to create Molotov cocktails via online videos. While he considered physical violence as a way to express his views, he had previously attempted to purchase a firearm but was unable to due to his lack of U.S. citizenship. This verdict led him to resort to creating incendiary devices instead.

The Investigation Continues

Soliman is an Egyptian national who arrived in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa in August 2022, which expired in February 2023. Following his arrival, he filed for asylum just a month later, but the status of his case is still uncertain. He had lived in Colorado Springs prior to the attack and had been working at a local medical clinic under a valid work visa, which also expired in August 2023.

The FBI, led by Director Kash Patel, has called this incident a terrorist attack, emphasizing the seriousness of their ongoing investigation, which includes coordination with the National Counterterrorism Center.

Next Steps and Court Proceedings

Soliman has made his first court appearance, where he acknowledged understanding the judge’s protection order. The next critical step will take place on Thursday, when the official charges against him are set to be filed. As the Boulder community comes to grips with the aftermath of this shocking incident, many are left wondering about the lasting impacts of this event on their lives and on the ongoing nightly demonstration they once held in peace.