A man unleashed chaos at a peaceful event advocating for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, using an improvised flamethrower and an incendiary device at a bustling pedestrian mall in Boulder, Colorado. Authorities report that this violent act injured at least eight people and is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism.
The lone suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, from El Paso County, Colorado, was swiftly apprehended at the scene after witnesses identified him. Details about Soliman remain scarce, but Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin revealed on social media platform X that he entered the United States in August 2022 on a B-2 tourist visa, which expired over two years ago. Various news outlets, including CBS and Fox News, have reported that Soliman is an Egyptian national, citing unnamed sources.
Soliman now faces multiple preliminary charges, including first-degree murder and using explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, as confirmed by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutors are still reviewing which charges will ultimately be pursued. The suspect was injured during the incident and transported to a hospital for medical evaluation before being booked into the Boulder County jail. Court records show his bond is set at $10 million.
How Did the Boulder Attack Unfold?
Law enforcement was dispatched to the Pearl Street Mall at 1:26 p.m. on Sunday after reports of an attack on a peaceful weekly event supporting the release of Gaza hostages. Witnesses described the attacker wielding a makeshift flamethrower and throwing an incendiary device into the crowd. FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek said witnesses also heard the suspect shouting “free Palestine.”
Eight victims—four women and four men ranging in age from 52 to 88—were injured and taken to hospitals across the Denver metro area. Michalek emphasized, “This is a targeted act of violence and the FBI is investigating it as an act of terrorism.”
Immigration Status and Asylum Application
Tricia McLaughlin noted that Soliman’s tourist visa expired in February 2023, six months after his arrival. B-2 visas typically allow for stays up to six months, intended for vacation, visiting family, medical treatment, or attending events. The State Department issues millions of B-1 and B-2 visas annually, with B-1 visas permitting visits for business or conferences.
Additionally, McLaughlin revealed that Soliman filed for asylum in September 2022, with his application likely still pending due to a significant immigration court backlog of approximately 3.6 million cases as of March, according to Syracuse University’s Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse.
On X, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller labeled Soliman an “illegal alien” and criticized the Biden administration for allegedly approving a work permit after Soliman overstayed his visa.
FBI Raid at Suspect’s Home
Hours after naming Soliman as the suspect, the FBI conducted a court-authorized raid on his home in El Paso County. The Denver FBI field office announced their ongoing law enforcement activity via X but provided no further details, citing the investigation’s ongoing nature.
Was Soliman Acting Alone?
At a press conference, Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn expressed confidence that Soliman is the sole suspect, though investigations and interviews continue. He stated, “We are fairly confident we have the lone suspect in custody,” but refrained from absolute certainty.
Michalek added that no links have been found between Soliman and any broader criminal network or group so far. “This will be a thorough and complete investigation, and those checks are ongoing,” he said. Both local and federal agencies are collaborating closely as the inquiry unfolds.
Possible Charges and Legal Proceedings
Boulder County District Attorney Michael Doherty said his office is working with the U.S. attorney’s office to decide the specific charges against Soliman. “There are several options,” Doherty explained during a press briefing, stressing, “What’s most important is that the charges hold the attacker fully accountable.”
The community and officials alike remain vigilant, awaiting further developments as the judicial process begins. The focus remains on justice for the victims and preventing future violence.
