Crime scene stock photo. /Envato Elements
Terror Attack in Boulder: Eight Injured in Firebomb Assault on Pro-Israel Demonstration
By KLZ News Staff
June 2, 2025
BOULDER, Colo. — A peaceful pro-Israel demonstration turned into a scene of terror on Sunday afternoon when a man attacked participants with incendiary devices, injuring eight individuals aged between 52 and 88. The FBI is investigating the incident as a targeted act of terrorism and a potential hate crime.
The attack occurred around 1:26 p.m. at the Pearl Street Mall during a weekly event organized by “Run for Their Lives,” a group dedicated to raising awareness about Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Witnesses reported that the assailant, identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national who had overstayed his visa, shouted “Free Palestine” before deploying a makeshift flamethrower and hurling Molotov cocktails into the crowd.
Among the victims was an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor, described by Rabbi Israel Wilhelm of the University of Colorado Boulder as a “very loving person.” Two of the injured were airlifted to UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital’s burn unit in Aurora, while others received treatment at Boulder Community Health.
Law enforcement officials apprehended Soliman at the scene. He has been charged with multiple felonies, including two counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, use of explosives, and crimes against at-risk adults. His bond is set at $10 million, and a court hearing is scheduled for later today.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. FBI Director Kash Patel labeled it a “targeted terror attack,” while Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser stated it appeared to be a hate crime against the Jewish community. Governor Jared Polis, who is Jewish, called the assault “unfathomable,” especially as it occurred on the eve of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.
Organizers of “Run for Their Lives” emphasized that their weekly walks are non-political and focused solely on humanitarian concerns. This marks the first violent incident since the group began its demonstrations in November 2023.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to contact the FBI or Boulder Police Department.
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