BOULDER, CO. — A man used Molotov cocktails & a homemade flamethrower to attack rally attendees in Boulder Colorado on Sunday— injuring eight people including one who was critically injured.
The incident happened during a nonviolent demonstration in support of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza that took place on Pearl Street Mall.
As he targeted the group suspect 45 year old Mohamed Sabry Soliman reportedly yelled End Zionist! & Free Palestine. Four women and four men ages 52 to 88 were among the victims who were transported to nearby hospitals after suffering burn injuries and one is still in critical condition.
According to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn who verified the suspect's arrest on the spot. The injuries are consistent with the use of incendiary devices. Given that the attack was targeted the FBI is looking into it as a potential act of terrorism and hate— crime. "Given the group targeted, this seems to be a hate crime," said Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser. The solution to conflict resolution is never violence.
Run for Their Lives, an international group that promotes the release of Israeli hostages, organized the rally as part of a weekly event. The group stressed the humanitarian non political nature of their meetings.
They declared "This is a peaceful walk to show solidarity with the hostages and their families! It is not a protest."
Soliman an Egyptian— national who reportedly overstayed his visa faces multiple charges pending further investigation. Authorities have increased patrols in Boulder as a precaution.
Governor Jared Polis denounced the attack, saying, My thoughts are with those injured and impacted by today’s heinous act of terror. People may have differing views about world events, but violence is never the answer. The Boulder Jewish Community Center expressed sorrow, stating, We are heartbroken by this horrible attack and pray for a speedy recovery for those injured.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions, following a recent shooting at the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C., where a suspect also shouted Free Palestine. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called the Boulder attack pure antisemitism & terrorism on social media.
Authorities continue to probe the suspect’s motives and urge anyone with information to come forward as the investigation unfolds.