Horror Unfolds in Boulder as Peaceful Gathering Becomes Scene of Targeted Fire Attack

A Chilling Day in Colorado

A tranquil weekend in Boulder, Colorado, was shattered when a peaceful community event turned into a horrifying scene of violence. A man launched a violent assault on a group that had gathered for a routine weekly walk, injuring eight individuals—some critically. Authorities have labeled it a deliberate act of terrorism.

The attack, which involved Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower, sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Boulder community. Investigators have since revealed that the act was carefully premeditated, with chilling intent and planning that stretched back nearly a year.

Inside the Attack

How the Violence Unfolded

The targeted group had assembled for a scheduled event associated with “Run for Their Lives,” a global movement that hosts peaceful walks to raise awareness for Israeli hostages. According to investigators, the assailant arrived at the scene moments before the group began its walk. He then unleashed the attack by throwing two incendiary devices into the crowd and using a homemade flamethrower, resulting in injuries ranging from minor to severe burns.

Authorities responded swiftly, arresting the suspect, who was later identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman. He was found injured and was taken to the hospital before being booked into custody.

Near the crime scene, law enforcement discovered a plastic container holding 14 unused Molotov cocktails, along with a weed sprayer filled with highly flammable octane fuel—further evidence of his premeditated intentions.

Profile of the Suspect

Who Is Mohamed Sabry Soliman?

The suspect, an Egyptian national, has been charged with federal hate crimes, attempted murder, assault, and use of explosive devices. Officials also noted a murder charge was filed, though none of the victims have died. Authorities have not yet clarified the basis for this particular charge.

Court documents reveal that Soliman told investigators he had been planning the attack for over a year and waited until after his daughter’s graduation to carry it out. He admitted to researching how to make Molotov cocktails through online videos and purchased gasoline on the way to Boulder from his residence in Colorado Springs.

According to officials, Soliman had left behind a phone with messages for his family, indicating he had no intention of returning. He also expressed violent ideologies during his post-arrest interviews, stating a desire to conduct more attacks and “kill all Zionist people.”

Government sources confirmed Soliman originally entered the U.S. on a visa in 2022, which expired in early 2023. He applied for asylum later that year and had been living in Colorado Springs at the time of the attack.

The Victims

Elders and Survivors Among the Injured

The attack left eight people hospitalized, ranging in age from 52 to 88. Among the victims is a Holocaust survivor, an 88-year-old man described by community members as a “loving soul.” His involvement in the walk reflects the diverse and deeply committed nature of those participating in the cause.

Officials reported that four of the victims were women and four were men. Medical teams are treating various degrees of burns and trauma. Some injuries are considered life-altering.

About the Gathering

What Is ‘Run for Their Lives’?

The group targeted in the attack is part of a global grassroots movement called “Run for Their Lives.” The organization holds peaceful 1-kilometer walks once a week to raise awareness about Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Participants wear red T-shirts and carry flags representing the nationalities of the hostages.

With over 230 active groups, mostly in North America and Europe, the movement emphasizes nonviolent advocacy and community engagement. Each group is locally led, and events are framed as unifying walks rather than political protests.

The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation

Federal agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, continue to investigate the incident. Authorities are working to determine if there are any broader implications or potential threats beyond this single event. So far, they believe Soliman acted alone.

More updates are expected as the investigation unfolds, and the suspect is scheduled for his first court appearance shortly.

A senior Homeland Security official expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, stating, “We are praying for their recovery. Violence of this kind has no place in our society.”

Reactions from the Jewish Community

Fear, Grief, and Resilience

Jewish organizations and leaders across Colorado have condemned the attack and offered support to the victims. Community members expressed heartbreak and deep concern over the targeted nature of the violence.

“Our hearts go out to those who witnessed this horrifying attack. We are praying for the quick recovery of all injured,” read a statement from Boulder’s Jewish leadership.

This incident follows a troubling trend of increasing antisemitic violence across the U.S., with data indicating a record number of such incidents in recent years.

A Broader Context of Hate

A Surge in Antisemitic Incidents

The Boulder attack is part of a wider pattern of rising hate crimes and targeted attacks against Jewish communities. Just days prior, two individuals were shot outside a Jewish museum in Washington D.C. by a gunman who also shouted “Free Palestine” before opening fire.

Organizations tracking hate crimes report an alarming rise in antisemitic acts, particularly during periods of heightened international tension.

Moving Forward

Calls for Unity and Vigilance

In the wake of this attack, communities across the country are re-evaluating security protocols for peaceful gatherings and public events. Many are calling for stronger measures to address violent extremism and for better support systems to monitor individuals who pose a credible threat.

Despite the fear and pain caused by this tragedy, organizers of “Run for Their Lives” and their supporters remain committed to their message of peace and advocacy. The community’s resilience is evident in their continued dedication to walking together, week after week, in support of their cause.

This shocking event in Boulder serves as a stark reminder of the threats posed by hatred and extremism. As investigators continue their work, the focus remains on healing, justice, and ensuring that such an attack does not happen again. Communities must come together—not only in grief but in unified resolve to stand against violence and hate.