Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, a peaceful pro-Israel demonstration took a terrifying turn when Mohamed Sabry Soliman allegedly launched a brutal firebomb attack on the crowd.
The 45-year-old man, described as an illegal immigrant living in the U.S. on an expired work permit, reportedly hurled Molotov cocktails at demonstrators, shouting pro-Palestinian slogans.
The FBI quickly labeled the incident a “targeted terror attack,” and Soliman was arrested and charged with multiple serious felonies.
The Attack and Immediate Aftermath
The attack happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. local time, during a rally supporting Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Shocking videos surfaced online showing a shirtless man pacing as flames consumed the grass around him, throwing makeshift incendiary devices made from alcohol bottles.
Witnesses said he yelled “Free Palestine,” and “End Zionists,” while targeting a group of peaceful protesters.
At least eight people were injured in the attack, including several who suffered burns.
Three victims were hospitalized, with one reported to be in critical condition.
Boulder police confirmed that no deaths had occurred, despite serious felony charges including first-degree murder being filed against Soliman.
Who Is Mohamed Sabry Soliman?
Federal sources reveal Soliman came to the United States from Egypt in August 2022 on a tourist visa but overstayed.
The Biden administration then granted him a two-year work permit, which he also overstayed, according to Department of Homeland Security officials.
This has raised questions about immigration enforcement, with White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller criticizing the administration’s handling of Soliman’s status.
Soliman is currently held on a $10 million bond at Boulder County jail, awaiting his court appearance later today.
Legal Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Soliman faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault, and using explosives or incendiary devices.
Despite the severe charges, police have yet to confirm any fatalities.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s Denver field office, are investigating the incident thoroughly.
Authorities also conducted court-authorized searches of Soliman’s home in El Paso County, which neighbors say was a quiet and unassuming residence.
Mental Health and Motive Under Review
Investigators are exploring whether Soliman may have mental health issues, which could have played a role in the attack.
Officials are also reviewing his online activity and interviewing acquaintances to piece together a fuller picture of his motivations.
Though the FBI calls this a terror attack, some officials and commentators have debated the classification while police continue their investigation.
National and International Reactions
The attack has sent shockwaves across the nation.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the violence as a “heinous, targeted act” and promised full cooperation with law enforcement.
Meanwhile, the New York Police Department increased security at religious sites in anticipation of Shavuot, expressing concerns about possible copycat attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the attack “vicious” and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
He urged the U.S. to prosecute Soliman to the fullest extent of the law and emphasized the need to stop rising antisemitic violence.
Eyewitness Accounts Paint a Disturbing Picture
Several witnesses described scenes of chaos and horror.
One university student recounted seeing women on the ground, badly burned and wrapped in flags for comfort.
Others saw large flames and glass bottles flying through the air as the suspect moved aggressively through the crowd.
Media and Public Discourse on the Incident
The FBI’s swift labeling of the attack as terrorism sparked debate, especially after CNN’s national security analyst questioned whether it was premature to classify the incident without full police confirmation.
This comment received backlash online, with many pointing to video evidence showing the suspect’s anti-Zionist rhetoric during the attack.
Victims Include Holocaust Survivor and Longtime Residents
Police have described the injured as four women and four men ranging in age from 52 to 88.
Among them is a Holocaust survivor, underscoring the tragic nature of the attack on a community event meant to honor those held hostage in Gaza.
What Happens Next
Mohamed Soliman is due in court this afternoon, where prosecutors will move forward with the charges against him.
As the investigation continues, local and federal authorities are working together to ensure justice and prevent further acts of violence.