Police officers are examining the scene after a violent incident took place at Pearl Street Mall on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Boulder, Colorado. AP Photo
A peaceful event in Boulder, Colorado, turned into a terrifying scene on Sunday. Six people got hurt during a sudden attack at an outdoor mall. The crowd had gathered to raise awareness about Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.
Suspect Yells and Attacks
Witnesses said a man shouted “Free Palestine” before attacking the group with a homemade flamethrower. The suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, also threw burning objects. A video showed him shirtless, holding containers, while police rushed toward him with guns drawn.
Authorities arrested Soliman and took him to the hospital for treatment. They haven’t shared details about his injuries yet. Officials said they plan to hold him fully responsible.
Victims Caught in the Flames
The injured suffered from burns. Police said the attack happened where a volunteer group called Run For Their Lives was demonstrating. The group had been peacefully supporting the release of hostages still held by militants in Gaza.
The FBI believes this attack was planned and motivated by hate. Federal agents and the Justice Department are treating it as a terror case. They said this act followed a recent rise in violence targeting Jewish Americans.
A Witness Shares What Happened
One person at the scene shouted, “He’s right there. He’s throwing Molotov cocktails!” as a police officer approached the attacker. Authorities cleared out several blocks near Pearl Street Mall to ensure safety. Officers searched the area with a police dog.
Previous Violence in the Area
This attack comes four years after another tragedy in Boulder. In 2021, a gunman killed four people in a grocery store nearby. That man is now serving a life sentence.
Israel-Gaza Conflict Background
The event in Boulder is tied to tensions over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. In October 2023, militants entered southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and kidnapping 250 others. About 58 hostages remain in Gaza. Around a third are believed to be alive.
Israel’s military response has killed more than 54,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children. Most of the region now depends on outside help. The war continues to stir emotions and spark violence far beyond the Middle East.
Leaders React to the Attack
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said investigators believe the attacker acted on his beliefs. He promised to clearly explain the case as they learn more. Police in Boulder said it’s too early to confirm a motive but pointed out the victims were likely set on fire.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis called the attack “hate-filled” and “unacceptable.” He said he’s keeping a close watch on the case.
Safety Still a Concern
The scene stayed tense after the attack. Police warned people to avoid the area while they checked for more threats. Many in the community are shaken by the violence at what was meant to be a peaceful event.
