In a disturbing act of violence that has shaken the local community and drawn national attention, eight individuals were injured Saturday after an assailant launched an incendiary attack during a pro-Israel rally in downtown Boulder. Authorities say the attacker used Molotov cocktails and an improvised flamethrower device while shouting “Free Palestine,” igniting chaos at the peaceful gathering.
The incident unfolded around 11:15 a.m. at Pearl Street Mall, a popular pedestrian thoroughfare in Boulder, where demonstrators had convened under the banner of “Run for Their Lives”—a group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the assailant, identified by law enforcement as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, hurled homemade explosive devices into the crowd and appeared to target participants with flames. Many in attendance suffered burns and other injuries, ranging in age from 52 to 88. Several were transported to local hospitals, though no fatalities have been reported.
Authorities confirmed that Soliman, an Egyptian national who entered the U.S. in 2022 on a non-immigrant visa, was quickly subdued by bystanders and taken into custody. He remains hospitalized under police guard.
Boulder Police, in conjunction with the FBI and federal counterterrorism units, are investigating the incident as a possible act of domestic terrorism. Boulder Police Chief Maris Herold stated during a press briefing:
“This was a deliberate and targeted act of violence. We are working with our federal partners to understand all aspects of this case, including motive and connections to broader extremist activity.”
Federal authorities have yet to confirm whether the attack was coordinated or inspired by foreign terrorist organizations, but emphasized that the investigation remains active. The Department of Homeland Security has not elevated the national threat level but is monitoring for possible copycat incidents or retaliatory actions.
Community leaders and political figures have responded with alarm and condemnation. Governor Jared Polis released a statement expressing solidarity with the victims and called for calm:
“Colorado stands against hatred in all its forms. Violence against any community, regardless of faith or origin, has no place in our state.”
The attack has amplified fears over rising tensions related to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, which has seen a significant spike in both antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in the U.S. since the outbreak of war last year. Civil rights groups have urged the public to remain vigilant but not succumb to fear or retaliatory behavior.
In the wake of the attack, security has been increased around places of worship, community centers, and upcoming rallies in Boulder and surrounding areas. Law enforcement officials are encouraging anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward.
As the investigation continues, local and federal authorities have pledged transparency and swift justice for what many are calling one of the most alarming public acts of political violence in Colorado in recent memory.
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