Boulder Colorado News: Recent Terror Attack at Pro-Israel Demonstration

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Boulder was shaken by a terrorist attack during a pro-Israel demonstration.
• 12 individuals were injured with no reported fatalities.
• The attacker, Mohamed Soliman, faces federal hate crime charges.
• Community response emphasizes unity and healing.
• Officials call for a stronger stance against hate and violence.

In a shocking turn of events, Boulder, Colorado, was rocked by a violent attack on June 1, 2025, when a pro-Israel demonstration outside the Boulder courthouse turned tragic. The incident, marked by chaos and panic, has been officially classified as an act of terrorism. This devastating event has left the community grappling with fear and concern over safety as well as the implications of hate-fueled violence.

The Horrific Attack

At 1:26 PM local time, the attack unfolded at the bustling Pearl Street Mall, where a group named “Run for Their Lives” had gathered to express their support for Israel and to demand the release of hostages held in Gaza. According to eyewitness accounts and reports, the suspect launched Molotov cocktails into the crowd, igniting a scene of horror and despair. Omer Shachar, one of the co-leaders of the group, described the chaotic moments as individuals caught fire, stating, “They’re literally on fire. I don’t know if I can express it enough — literally on fire and trying to pull my friend out of the fire” ([ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/boulder-group-leader-recounts-panic-attack-unfolded-theyre/story?id=122442349)).

The attack resulted in a total of 12 injuries, as participants struggled to escape the flames. From those injured, two victims were airlifted to UCHealth’s specialized burn unit, while four others were treated at Boulder Community Health and later transferred or discharged. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities reported as a result of the attack, though the injuries left many in the community rattled ([CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-police-responding-to-boulder-pearl-street-mall-attack-multiple-injured/), [Boulder County Government](https://bouldercounty.gov/news/)).

The immediate aftermath of the attack saw brave passersby rushing to help extinguish flames using water bottles while emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, highlighting the quick action of community members in a moment of crisis.

Uncovering the Suspect

In the wake of the attack, law enforcement wasted no time in identifying and apprehending the suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Soliman, born on December 15, 1979 ([ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/boulder-group-leader-recounts-panic-attack-unfolded-theyre/story?id=122442349), [Boulder Police Department](https://boulderodm.gov/update-from-boulder-police-department/)). Authorities revealed that Soliman was charged with a federal hate crime, emphasizing the need to address such acts of hate with severity. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi described him as an “illegal alien perpetrator,” pointing to the increase in scrutiny of immigration and related policies in light of emerging threats to communities ([CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-police-responding-to-boulder-pearl-street-mall-attack-multiple-injured/)).

Photographers and media outlets reported Soliman’s booking photo, which has since been released to the public as the investigation unfolds. Compounding the shock of the attack, it was disclosed that Soliman’s wife and children are currently in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reflecting the broader implications of this tragic incident ([ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/boulder-group-leader-recounts-panic-attack-unfolded-theyre/story?id=122442349)).

Officials Respond: A Call Against Hate

In response to the incident, multiple officials and agencies have come forward, denouncing the violence. The FBI, under the leadership of Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, has classified the acts committed during the attack as a terrorist incident, with FBI agents dispatched to assist local law enforcement ([CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-police-responding-to-boulder-pearl-street-mall-attack-multiple-injured/)).

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser made an official statement indicating the attack’s apparent motivation as a hate crime directed against the gathered pro-Israel supporters, reinforcing the need for legal and communal support in such trying times. He emphasized, “From what we know, this attack appears to be a hate crime given the group that was targeted. I have been in touch with Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty and have offered support from the Attorney General’s Office” ([CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-police-responding-to-boulder-pearl-street-mall-attack-multiple-injured/)).

In a united stand against hatred, the Boulder County Commissioners condemned the attack and its underlying antisemitism. They expressed solidarity with the victims, stating, “We stand united against hate and terror, and denounce the heinous antisemitic attack on 12 members of the community” ([Boulder County Government](https://bouldercounty.gov/news/)).

Meanwhile, the Boulder Police Department diligently continues its investigation, planning regular press conferences to keep the public updated about any further developments ([Boulder Police Department](https://boulderodm.gov/update-from-boulder-police-department/)).

Community Fallout and Reflection

In the wake of this tragic event, Boulder’s community has found itself at a crossroads. The attack has raised questions about safety at public demonstrations and the state’s response to recent escalations in hate crimes across the nation. The actions that transpired during the demonstration have not only caused physical injuries but have also left scarred psychological wounds on those who witnessed the violence.

Members of the community are now grappling with the implications of this act of terrorism. Discussions surrounding the balance between free speech and the dangers of hate speech are taking center stage. Efforts are being made to organize peace rallies and discussions to promote unity and healing among the residents of Boulder ([Boulder County Government](https://bouldercounty.gov/news/)).

In these challenging times, it is vital that communities stand together against hatred and violence. Initiatives to rally for peace have begun sprouting on social media platforms and local community boards. Many residents are uniting to show solidarity with the victims and to send a resounding message that Boulder’s community will not be defined by acts of hate.

Conclusion

As Boulder processes the aftermath of this harrowing attack, the focus must remain on healing, support for the victims, and a commitment to stand against hate in any form. The resilience of Boulder’s community will shine through as it addresses and combats the shadows of terrorism and attacks fueled by disdain.

In the days ahead, the importance of embracing diversity and fostering a community where everyone feels safe will underscore the response to this tragedy. Let today serve as a reminder of how we must protect one another and cultivate environments free from hatred. As Boulder continues to heal, it is essential to engage in meaningful discussions, support the survivors, and ensure that the spirit of resilience prevails in the face of adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened during the pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder?

A violent attack occurred where a suspect launched Molotov cocktails into the crowd, resulting in 12 injuries.

Who is the suspect and what charges have been filed?

The suspect is 45-year-old Mohamed Soliman, charged with a federal hate crime.

How is the Boulder community responding to this attack?

The community is promoting unity and healing while organizing peace rallies and discussions to combat hate.

What measures are officials taking to prevent future incidents?

Officials are denouncing violence, classifying this as a terrorist incident, and are maintaining public updates on the investigation.