The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, is anticipated to face charges related to the attack, which the FBI is investigating as an act of terrorism.
The eruption of violence took place at the popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, a four-block stretch in downtown Boulder, amid an ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that continues to escalate global tensions and has led to a rise in antisemitic violence in the United States. This incident occurred only a week after another individual, who also shouted “Free Palestine,” was charged with the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers outside a Jewish museum in Washington.
“Sadly, incidents like this are becoming increasingly frequent across the country,” remarked Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Denver field office, which covers Boulder. “This is a clear example of how those who commit acts of violence pose a threat to communities nationwide.”
Read more: Ukraine drone strikes hit nuclear bombers deep inside Russia
The six injured individuals were aged between 67 and 88, with injuries varying from serious to minor, officials indicated.
The attack unfolded as individuals from a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives were wrapping up their weekly demonstration intended to promote awareness for the hostages still in Gaza. Video footage from the scene captures a witness exclaiming, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” while a police officer, with weapon drawn, approaches a bare-chested suspect holding containers in each hand.
Lynn Segal, 72, was among approximately 20 attendees present on Sunday. Following their march in front of the courthouse, she recounted seeing a “rope of fire” shoot past her, followed by “two large flares.” The situation rapidly descended into chaos as individuals sought water to extinguish flames and assist the injured.
Segal, who identified as Jewish on her father’s side and has been a supporter of Palestine for over 40 years, expressed concern about being misjudged for aiding the suspect due to her pro-Palestine shirt. “There were people on fire; I wanted to help,” she reflected. “But I didn’t want to be linked to the perpetrator.”
Authorities withheld detailed information about Soliman but indicated that they believe he acted independently and that no additional suspects are being pursued. While no criminal charges were announced immediately, officials stated their intention to hold Soliman accountable. He also sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital, though authorities did not specify the nature of his injuries.
FBI leaders promptly classified the attack as an act of terrorism, with the Justice Department condemning it as a “needless act of violence, which follows recent assaults against Jewish Americans.”
“This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on early evidence, findings, and witness accounts. We will communicate clearly regarding these incidents when the facts justify it,” stated FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino in an X post.
Read more: Red Cross Hospital: At least 21 Palestinians killed on way to Gaza aid center
Israel’s conflict in Gaza commenced when Hamas-led militants invaded southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities, primarily civilians, and the abduction of around 250 individuals. Currently, they continue to hold 58 hostages, about a third believed to be alive, after most were released during ceasefire agreements or other negotiations.
Israel’s military operations have claimed the lives of over 54,000 individuals in Hamas-controlled Gaza, mainly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants among the deceased. The offensive has devastated expansive areas, displaced roughly 90% of the population, and left residents almost entirely dependent on international assistance.
This violence follows a shooting spree at a grocery store in Boulder, located approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Denver, which left 10 people dead four years ago. The gunman received a life sentence for murder after a jury rejected his plea of not guilty by reason of insanity.
Authorities evacuated multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area. The atmosphere was tense shortly after the attack, as law enforcement officials and a police dog combed the streets for potential threats and instructed the public to steer clear of the mall.
