A violent attack shook Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday, June 1, 2025, leaving eight people injured during a pro-Israel demonstration.
Authorities quickly identified the suspect as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, who allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower while shouting “Free Palestine.”
The FBI has classified this horrifying incident as an act of terror, sending shockwaves through the peaceful community.
The “Run for Their Lives” demonstration aimed to support hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, attracting participants aged 52 to 88.
Consequently, these peaceful protesters unexpectedly became victims when Soliman launched his attack, injuring several protesters severely, with burns and wounds.
Although six victims have been released from hospital care, two others still remain in critical condition, prompting concern.
Nonetheless, doctors remain hopeful about their potential for recovery, despite the severity of their injuries.
As a result, the community endures this senseless violence during a time that should have been hopeful and unifying.
The community continues to face senseless violence during a time that should be hopeful and unifying.
Investigations now reveal that Soliman entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in August 2022, then applied for asylum in September.
His legal status expired in February 2023; although he briefly held a work permit, he remained unlawfully in the country since March.
While authorities examine his immigration history, they piece together his background and motives, which are central to the investigation.
Currently, Soliman is held on a $10 million bond at Boulder County Jail, facing multiple serious charges, including use of an incendiary device.
Although no lives were lost, prosecutors surprisingly included first-degree murder charges, raising questions about the case’s severity and intent.
President Donald Trump briefly broke his silence Monday, condemning the attack as “horrific” via his social media platform.
His statement focused on border security, calling for the deportation of “illegal, anti-American radicals,” though notably, he did not mention rising antisemitism in his remarks.
The delayed response, despite early briefings, has drawn mixed reactions as the nation processes this act of terror.
Boulder’s tight-knit community, known for civic engagement, now mourns this violation of their peaceful values.
Particularly heartbreaking is the involvement of a Holocaust survivor among the injured, adding painful historical resonance to the attack.
FBI agents and local law enforcement continue working around the clock, with bomb squads having secured the Pearl Street Mall area where the violence erupted.
As Soliman prepares for his Monday court appearance, legal experts anticipate intense scrutiny of the proceedings.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed his 2022 asylum application but hasn’t disclosed its basis, leaving unanswered questions about potential warning signs missed by immigration officials.
This case may have far-reaching implications for asylum processes and visa oversight nationwide.
The tragedy has reignited heated debates about immigration policy and national security, with Republican leaders pointing to systemic failures.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups caution against broad generalizations, stressing that one individual’s actions shouldn’t define entire communities.
Security at public demonstrations, especially those addressing sensitive geopolitical issues, now faces renewed examination.
Despite the trauma, “Run for Their Lives” organizers remain steadfast in their mission, vowing to continue advocating for Gaza hostages.
Their resilience mirrors Boulder’s spirit as the city begins healing. Authorities continue their investigations and promise to provide more information in the coming days.
This quiet college town is now facing the harsh reality of domestic terrorism on its streets.