BOULDER, Colo. — Authorities reported that a man used a homemade flamethrower and shouted “Free Palestine” before launching an incendiary device at a group gathered to raise awareness about Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Six people sustained injuries, including some who suffered burns.
The suspect, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, is in custody. Officials stated that the FBI is treating the case as an act of terrorism, and charges are expected.
The incident occurred Sunday in Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, a busy open-air shopping district. The targeted group was part of Run For Their Lives, a volunteer organization that conducts weekly demonstrations in support of hostages still held in Gaza. The attack took place shortly after the group’s event concluded.
Witness footage captured someone yelling, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails,” as police confronted the shirtless suspect holding containers in both hands.
Authorities confirmed the victims were between 67 and 88 years old, with injuries ranging from minor to more serious.
Lynn Segal, 72, who attended the gathering, described witnessing a “rope of fire” followed by “two huge flashes of flame.” She said people immediately began seeking water and assistance to extinguish the fire and help the wounded.
Segal, who noted she is Jewish on her father’s side and a long-time supporter of Palestine, expressed concern over possible misidentification because she was wearing a pro-Palestine shirt. “There were people on fire, and I wanted to help,” she said. “But I didn’t want to be linked to the perpetrator.”
Officials said Soliman appeared to act alone. He also sustained injuries and was hospitalized, though specific details were not released. No additional suspects are being pursued.
“This is an example of how perpetrators of violence continue to threaten communities across the country,” said Mark Michalek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Denver field office.
The Justice Department condemned the attack, describing it as a “needless act of violence,” while the FBI stated that it is being investigated as ideologically motivated. “We will speak clearly about these incidents when the facts warrant,” said FBI Assistant Director Dan Bongino in a social media post.
The event unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, 2023, when militants crossed into southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages. As of now, 58 hostages remain, with roughly one-third believed to be alive.
In response, Israel has launched a military operation in Gaza. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, more than 54,000 people, primarily women and children, have been killed. The offensive has led to widespread destruction, displaced the majority of the population, and caused near-total dependency on humanitarian aid.
Following the Boulder attack, law enforcement shut down several blocks around the pedestrian mall. Officers swept the area and instructed the public to stay clear.
This is the second high-profile act of violence in Boulder in recent years. In 2021, a shooter killed 10 people at a supermarket. That assailant was later sentenced to life in prison.