Marina
On June 1, 2025, a peaceful demonstration in downtown Boulder, Colorado, turned into a horrifying scene when a man attacked participants with a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails.
The incident occurred during a weekly event organized by Run For Their Lives, a group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Details of the Incident
- Time of Attack: Approximately 1:26 PM MDT
- Location: Pearl Street Mall, near the Boulder County Courthouse
- Event: Weekly walk by Run For Their Lives
- Suspect: Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45-year-old Egyptian national
- Method: Use of Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower
- Motive: Shouted “Free Palestine” during the attack
- Casualties: Eight individuals injured, ages ranging from 52 to 88
- Critical Injuries: At least one victim in critical condition
- Arrest: Suspect apprehended at the scene and treated for minor injuries
Victims and Community Impact
Among the eight victims were both men and women, with injuries varying from minor to severe burns. Notably, an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor was among those injured.
The attack has deeply affected the local community, especially as it occurred just before the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.
Law Enforcement and Government Response
The FBI is treating the incident as a targeted act of terrorism. Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the attack as a “heinous act of terror,” emphasizing that hate has no place in Colorado.
Suspect’s Background
Mohamed Sabry Soliman entered the U.S. on a visa in August 2022, which expired in February 2023. He was granted temporary work authorization, which lapsed in March 2025. Authorities have confirmed that he was in the country illegally at the time of the attack.
Broader Context and Reactions
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of rising antisemitic violence in the United States. It follows a recent incident in Washington, D.C., where two Israeli Embassy staffers were killed.
The Anti-Defamation League and other organizations have expressed deep concern over these escalating acts of hate.
Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Attack | June 1, 2025 |
| Location | Pearl Street Mall, Boulder, Colorado |
| Time | Approximately 1:26 PM MDT |
| Event | Run For Their Lives demonstration |
| Suspect | Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45-year-old Egyptian national |
| Method | Molotov cocktails and makeshift flamethrower |
| Motive | Shouted “Free Palestine” during the attack |
| Victims | Eight individuals aged 52 to 88; at least one in critical condition |
| Legal Status | Overstayed visa; work authorization expired in March 2025 |
| Investigation | Being treated as a targeted act of terrorism by the FBI |
The Boulder terror attack underscores the urgent need to address rising antisemitism and ensure the safety of peaceful demonstrators.
As investigations continue, the community stands united against hate and violence, reaffirming its commitment to peace and solidarity.