- Eight protesters injured in targeted flamethrower attack at Pearl Street Mall
- Suspect Mohamed Sabry Soliman arrested after shouting 'Free Palestine'
- FBI classifies incident as antisemitic terrorism tied to Israel-Hamas conflict
Authorities confirmed eight individuals sustained burn injuries during a Sunday demonstration organized by Run for Their Lives, a volunteer group advocating for Israeli hostages in Gaza. The attack occurred at Boulder's Pearl Street Mall, a popular tourist destination where protesters had gathered for a peaceful rally. Witnesses reported the assailant used makeshift incendiary devices before being subdued by law enforcement.
Newly released footage shows the 45-year-old suspect wielding two liquid-filled containers while allegedly throwing explosive devices. Boulder police chief Steve Redfearn confirmed victims aged 52-88 suffered injuries ranging from severe burns to smoke inhalation. This marks Colorado's second major antisemitic incident since 2023, following a 58% national increase in religious-based hate crimes.
The FBI's Denver field office emphasized this attack mirrors patterns seen in Washington D.C., where two Israeli diplomats were killed by a pro-Palestinian assailant last week. Analysts note social media platforms have amplified Middle East tensions, with 73% of recent domestic terror cases showing online radicalization elements. Boulder's history of mass violence - including the 2020 King Soopers shooting that left 10 dead - complicates community recovery efforts.
Law enforcement experts highlight three critical challenges in preventing similar attacks: identifying makeshift weapon components (like the pressurized propane device used here), monitoring decentralized hate groups, and addressing trauma in communities with prior mass casualty events. The Regional Counterterrorism Task Force has deployed additional resources to Colorado's Front Range following this incident.
Hospital officials report three victims remain in critical condition with second-degree burns. Legal analysts predict Soliman could face federal terrorism charges carrying life imprisonment, given the Justice Department's renewed focus on hate crimes. Community leaders have scheduled interfaith vigils while increasing security at local synagogues and Muslim community centers.
