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FBI Investigates Boulder Tragedy as Terrorist and Antisemitic Attack

BOULDER, COLORADO | An Israeli flag in a flowerbed near the scene of an incident in Pearl Street Mall. (Photo/EFE)

MOHAMED SOLIMAN FACES STATE AND FEDERAL CHARGES

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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On June 1st, a violent attack shook the city of Boulder, Colorado. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old man, launched an incendiary device and used a homemade flamethrower against a group of people attending a pro-Israel event at the Pearl Street Mall. The assault left at least eight people injured — four women and four men between 52 and 88 years old — who were transported to Denver metro area hospitals.

Authorities reported that the attack took place at 1:26 p.m., while attendees were holding their weekly march in solidarity with Israeli hostages in Gaza. According to witnesses, the attacker shouted “Free Palestine!” while carrying out the assault. Soliman was holding bottles that served as the flamethrower. Boulder Police Department officers arrested him within just six minutes, at 1:32 p.m., at the scene.

EIGHT VICTIMS | The wounded include four men and four women between ages 52 and 88. (Photo/X)

About the attacker

Local police immediately requested the FBI’s assistance, which is now investigating the case as an act of domestic terrorism and hate, citing clear signs of antisemitism. FBI Denver Special Agent Mark Michalek emphasized that “any attempt to divide us through fear or violence has no place in our society.” Federal authorities have asked the public to submit any digital evidence related to the incident.

Sources from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that Soliman is an Egyptian national who entered the U.S. legally through Los Angeles International Airport on August 27, 2022, on a B1/B2 non-immigrant visa. However, his authorized stay expired on February 26, 2023, and he has remained illegally in the country ever since. Later, on September 29, 2022, he filed a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), likely seeking asylum. His work permit expired in March 2025.

EGIPCIAN| Mohamed Sabry Soliman (45). (Foto/X)

Pending charges

Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty announced that Soliman faces multiple criminal charges for the attack. Although specific charges have not yet been made public, authorities confirmed that the case will be prosecuted under both state and federal law, including terrorism, hate crimes, and use of incendiary weapons. Soliman remains in custody at Boulder County Jail while the FBI continues gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Widespread condemnation

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation at both the local and national levels. Colorado Governor Jared Polis called the incident a “heinous act of terrorism.” Boulder County Commissioners also issued a joint statement condemning the attack: “Violence and hatred have no place in our community,” they said, offering condolences to the victims and praising first responders for their swift action.

Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic leader in the U.S. House of Representatives, described the incident as “antisemitic.” “Antisemitism has no place in the United States or anywhere in the world,” Jeffries stated. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an organization dedicated to combating antisemitism, confirmed that the attack occurred during a Jewish community event. The victims were participating in a peaceful walk held regularly in Boulder since the escalation of the conflict in Gaza.

Heightened security

Given the seriousness of the incident, Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn announced an increased law enforcement presence at public events and crowded areas throughout the city. “Boulder has recovered from violent acts before, and it will recover again,” he stated. Police and FBI agents continue collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses to strengthen the case against Soliman, who faces multiple federal and state charges.