A disturbing incident unfolded in Colorado when a man, disguised as a gardener, launched a flamethrower assault at a pro-Israel demonstration, injuring 13 people.
The suspect, identified as Mohamed Soliman, was among those injured. Authorities are investigating the incident as a hate-motivated terror attack.
This violent episode has raised concerns about the safety of public gatherings and the potential for such terrorism incidents in the future.
Key Takeaways
- A man attacked a pro-Israel rally in Colorado using a flamethrower.
- 13 people were injured, including the suspect.
- The incident is being treated as a hate-motivated terror attack.
- The suspect was identified as Mohamed Soliman.
- Authorities are investigating the incident.
The Boulder Terror Attack: What Happened at the Pro-Israel Rally
A pro-Israel rally in Boulder, Colorado, turned violent when an assailant wielding a flamethrower attacked participants. The event, organized by Run for Their Lives to draw attention to hostages taken by Hamas following their 2023 attack on Israel, was held on Pearl Street Mall near the University of Colorado.
Rally Setting and Initial Atmosphere
The rally was peaceful initially, with participants gathered to show solidarity with Israel. Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as calm and supportive until the attack occurred.
Chronology of the Attack
The attacker used a flamethrower and possibly Molotov cocktails to assault the crowd. The sequence of events during the attack is crucial for understanding the severity of the incident.
| Time | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 14:00 | Rally Begins | Participants gather on Pearl Street Mall |
| 14:30 | Attack Occurs | Assailant uses flamethrower on the crowd |
| 14:35 | Response | Emergency services are called to the scene |
The attack resulted in 13 injuries, with varying degrees of severity. The use of a flamethrower and other incendiary devices heightened the danger faced by those present.
Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as chaotic and terrifying, with people running to escape the flames. The quick response by emergency services helped mitigate the situation.
Weapons and Tactics: Flamethrower and Molotov Cocktails
A disturbing combination of weapons was used during the Boulder terror attack, including a homemade flamethrower and incendiary devices. This choice of weaponry not only heightened the severity of the attack but also indicated a level of premeditation.
The Makeshift Flamethrower Construction
The suspect’s use of a makeshift flamethrower is particularly noteworthy. Reports suggest that the device was constructed using readily available materials, highlighting the potential ease with which such dangerous tools can be created.
The construction of the flamethrower is believed to have involved common hardware store items, such as tanks, hoses, and nozzles, combined with a flammable liquid. This improvisation underscores the resourcefulness and intent of the attacker.
Gardener Disguise as Cover
In addition to the sophisticated weaponry, the suspect also employed a disguise to facilitate the attack. By dressing as a gardener, the individual was able to blend in with the surroundings, potentially avoiding detection until the last moment.
This tactic of disguise adds a layer of complexity to the attack, suggesting that the suspect had planned not only the assault but also how to navigate the scene without arousing suspicion.
| Weapon/Disguise | Description | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Makeshift Flamethrower | Constructed from hardware store items and flammable liquids | Indicates premeditation and resourcefulness |
| Molotov Cocktails | Incendiary devices made with bottles, fuel, and igniters | Enhances the severity and danger of the attack |
| Gardener Disguise | Dressing as a gardener to blend in | Facilitates the attack by avoiding suspicion |
Victims and Casualties:13 People Injured in Boulder
Thirteen people were injured in the flamethrower assault at a pro-Israel rally in Boulder. The attack, which involved a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails, resulted in a range of injuries among the victims.
Types of Injuries Sustained
The victims suffered from various injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation. The ages of the victims ranged from 52 to 88 years old, with four women and eight men affected.
The injuries sustained by the victims were primarily due to the flamethrower and the fire it caused. Some victims suffered severe burns, while others experienced smoke inhalation.
Medical Response and Current Conditions
The medical response to the incident was immediate, with local hospitals treating the injured. The current conditions of the victims vary, with some still receiving treatment for severe burns.
| Age Range | Number of Victims | Types of Injuries |
|---|---|---|
| 52-88 years | 13 (4 women, 8 men) | Burns, smoke inhalation |
A statement from a local hospital official highlights the severity of the injuries: “We received several patients with severe burns and smoke inhalation. Our medical team is working diligently to provide the best care possible.”
Local Hospital Official
Mohamed Soliman: Profile of the Suspect
As the investigation into the Boulder terror attack continues, Mohamed Soliman’s profile is being closely examined. The suspect, identified as Mohamed Soliman, is an Egyptian national who entered the United States in August 2022 on a B2 visa.
Background Information
Mohamed Soliman’s immigration history reveals that he had previously applied for asylum in the US. However, his application was not successful, and he was denied a visa to enter the country in 2005. Since his entry in 2022, there have been no publicly known issues or red flags associated with his presence in the country until the Boulder incident.
Immigration Status: B2 visa holder since August 2022
Nationality: Egyptian
Potential Motivations Being Investigated
Authorities are investigating the potential motivations behind Mohamed Soliman’s actions during the Boulder terror attack. The attack, characterized as a hate-motivated incident, has raised concerns about the factors that led to such a violent act.
Investigators are examining various aspects of Soliman’s background, including his immigration history and any possible affiliations or ideologies that could have influenced his actions.
The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement agencies working to piece together the events leading up to the attack and understand the motivations behind it.
Eyewitness Testimonies from the Boulder Attack
Eyewitnesses to the Boulder attack described the suspect’s actions and the immediate response of those around him. The testimonies provide a firsthand account of the events during the attack, offering insights into the chaos and panic that ensued.
Rally Participants’ Accounts
Participants at the pro-Israel rally in Boulder shared their experiences of the attack. One eyewitness reported hearing the suspect shout “Free Palestine” as he began his assault. The crowd was quickly thrown into chaos as people scrambled to get away from the attacker.
Witness accounts described the suspect using a flamethrower, causing injuries to multiple people. “I saw four women lying on the ground with burns on their legs,” one witness recounted. The immediacy of the witness descriptions highlights the severity of the attack and its impact on those present.
Nearby Residents and Bystanders
Residents and bystanders near the rally also witnessed the attack and its aftermath. Their testimonies corroborate the accounts from rally participants, providing a comprehensive view of the events. One bystander described seeing people running away from the scene, some with visible injuries.
| Witness Group | Key Observations |
|---|---|
| Rally Participants | Heard suspect shout “Free Palestine,” saw use of flamethrower, described chaos and injuries |
| Nearby Residents and Bystanders | Saw people fleeing, some with visible injuries, described the immediate aftermath |
The eyewitness testimonies from the Boulder attack collectively paint a vivid picture of the violence and panic that erupted at the pro-Israel rally. These accounts are crucial for understanding the incident and its impact on the community.
Official Response: Hate-Motivated Terror Classification
Officials have swiftly responded to the Boulder terror attack, with the FBI classifying it as a hate-motivated terror incident and prompting a strong reaction from local leaders. This classification has significant implications for the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.
Law Enforcement Statements
Law enforcement agencies have been vocal in their condemnation of the attack. The FBI, leading the investigation, has emphasized the seriousness of the incident and the need for a thorough inquiry.
- The Boulder Police Department has worked closely with the FBI to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
- Law enforcement officials have assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to bring those responsible to justice.
The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement agencies continuing to analyze evidence and follow up on leads.
Political and Community Leaders’ Reactions
Political and community leaders have also responded strongly to the attack, condemning it in the strongest terms. Local government officials have expressed their support for the victims and their families.
“We stand together against hate and terrorism in all its forms. Our community is strong and will not be intimidated by such acts of violence,” said a local official.
The community has come together to support those affected, with vigils and other events planned to promote healing and unity.
- Community leaders have called for calm and unity in the face of the attack.
- Local organizations are providing support to victims and their families.
The official response to the Boulder terror attack reflects a commitment to justice and community cohesion in the face of hate-motivated violence.
Investigation Details: Evidence Collection and Legal Proceedings
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the Boulder terror attack, focusing on evidence collection and legal proceedings. The Boulder police department is working closely with the FBI to uncover all aspects of the attack.
Current Charges and Legal Status
Mohamed Soliman, the suspect, has been charged with a federal hate crime and multiple other felonies. The legal proceedings against him are ongoing, with the court awaiting further evidence. The charges reflect the severity of the attack and its impact on the community.
Ongoing Investigative Efforts
The investigation is multifaceted, involving the collection of physical evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing surveillance footage. The FBI is playing a crucial role in this process, utilizing their resources to aid in the Boulder police investigation Mohamed Soliman. As the investigation unfolds, more details will emerge about the circumstances surrounding the terror attack.
The investigation into Boulder terror attack is comprehensive, with law enforcement agencies working together to ensure that all aspects are thoroughly examined. The community is being kept informed about the progress, and the legal proceedings against Mohamed Soliman are being closely monitored.
Community Support and Healing Initiatives
In response to the terror attack, the Boulder community initiated various healing and support programs. The community’s resilience was evident as they came together to support the victims and their families.
Vigils and Memorial Services
The community held vigils and memorial services to honor the victims and provide a platform for collective healing. These events were crucial in fostering a sense of unity and support among the community members.
“We stand together in the face of terror, united in our support for the victims and their families,” was a common sentiment echoed during these gatherings.
Support Resources for Victims and Witnesses
Support resources were made available for victims and witnesses, including counseling services and emotional support groups. These resources played a vital role in helping individuals cope with the trauma they experienced or witnessed.
As one witness noted,
“The outpouring of support from the community was overwhelming. It was a reminder that we are not alone in our trauma.”
The community’s response to the Boulder terror attack highlighted the importance of collective support and healing initiatives in the face of adversity. By coming together and providing resources for those affected, the community was able to begin the process of healing and recovery.
Conclusion: Implications and Moving Forward
The Boulder terror attack has significant implications for the community, law enforcement, and the nation as a whole, raising concerns about hate crimes and terrorism in the US. Understanding the implications of the Boulder terror attack is crucial in determining the path forward.
As the community begins to heal, efforts are being made to prevent similar incidents in the future. Law enforcement agencies are working closely with community leaders to enhance security measures and promote a culture of tolerance and understanding, which is essential for moving forward after the Boulder attack.
The incident has also sparked a wider conversation about hate crimes in Colorado, with many calling for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public to address the issue of hate crimes, including those that occurred in June 2025.
FAQ
What was the Boulder terror attack?
The Boulder terror attack was a hate-motivated assault that occurred at a pro-Israel rally in Boulder, Colorado, where a suspect used a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails, injuring 13 people.
Who is the suspect in the Boulder terror attack?
The suspect in the Boulder terror attack is Mohamed Soliman.
What were the suspect’s tactics during the attack?
The suspect used a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails during the attack, and also wore a gardener disguise as cover.
How many people were injured in the Boulder terror attack?
13 people were injured in the Boulder terror attack.
What were the types of injuries sustained by the victims?
The victims sustained various injuries, including burns and other trauma-related injuries.
What is the current legal status of the suspect?
The suspect, Mohamed Soliman, is currently facing charges related to the attack, and the investigation is ongoing.
How did the community respond to the Boulder terror attack?
The community responded with vigils, memorial services, and support resources for victims and witnesses.
What is being done to support the victims and witnesses of the attack?
Support resources are being provided to victims and witnesses, including medical and emotional support.
How is the investigation into the Boulder terror attack proceeding?
The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement collecting evidence and investigating the suspect’s background and motivations.
What were the potential motivations behind the Boulder terror attack?
The potential motivations behind the attack are being investigated, and may be related to the suspect’s background and extremist ideologies.
How has the Boulder community come together in response to the attack?
The Boulder community has come together to support the victims and witnesses, and to promote healing and unity.
