6 Injured in Colorado Attack at Boulder Mall; FBI Investigates as Possible Terrorism
BOULDER, Colo. — Six people were hurt Sunday in a shocking attack at Boulder’s popular Pearl Street pedestrian mall, an incident the FBI is treating as a “targeted terror attack.” The suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower during the assault, which occurred amid a peaceful gathering focused on raising awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Authorities quickly took Soliman into custody. He was also injured and hospitalized, though officials have not released details about his condition. No charges have been formally announced yet, but law enforcement expects to hold him “fully accountable,” according to Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the Denver FBI office.
What Happened?
The attack unfolded at the outdoor mall, a bustling four-block area in downtown Boulder, where a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives had assembled to spotlight the plight of hostages still held in Gaza amid ongoing conflict. Witnesses described the suspect shouting “Free Palestine” as he launched what appeared to be flaming projectiles.
Video footage from the scene captured a tense moment as a police officer, gun drawn, confronted a bare-chested man holding containers—presumably used as weapons. “He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” a witness shouted.
FBI and Justice Department Response
Federal officials wasted no time labeling the event as a terrorism case. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino called it an “act of ideologically motivated violence” and promised to provide clear updates as more facts emerge. The Justice Department condemned the attack as a “needless act of violence” amid a recent surge in antisemitic incidents across the United States.
Context: Rising Tensions and Violence
This attack comes against the backdrop of a violent and deeply complex conflict between Israel and Hamas, which erupted when Hamas militants launched a brutal assault on southern Israel last October. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and ongoing hostage situations, fueling tensions worldwide.
Just over a week ago, two Israeli embassy staffers were fatally shot in Washington by a man who claimed he acted “for Palestine.” Such events highlight the growing volatility and the spread of violent ideologies far beyond the Middle East.
Local Authorities Cautious on Motive
While federal agents are moving quickly, Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn urged caution in drawing conclusions. “It would be irresponsible for me to speculate,” he said, noting that the peaceful demonstration had attracted many people concerned about the hostages. The victims’ injuries—ranging from serious to minor—are believed to be consistent with burns, likely from being set on fire.
Remembering Boulder’s Past
The attack has reopened painful memories for Boulder, which suffered a deadly mass shooting at a grocery store four years ago that left four people dead. The city has been on alert since then, and police immediately evacuated multiple blocks of the pedestrian mall area after Sunday’s attack.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement expressing concern and condemning the violence. “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable,” he said, adding that he was closely monitoring the situation.
What’s Next?
As investigators continue interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence, the community remains shaken. The FBI’s classification of the attack as terrorism underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need to address rising ideological violence both locally and nationally.
For now, Boulder residents and visitors are urged to stay clear of the affected area as law enforcement ensures the safety of the city.
Source: AP News – 6 injured, possibly with burns, in a Colorado attack the FBI is investigating as terrorism
