An anti-Israel attacker disrupted a peaceful demonstration in downtown Boulder on Sunday, throwing Molotov cocktails into a crowd of participants and injuring at least five people. The FBI is now treating the incident as a potential act of domestic terrorism.
The attack took place just after 1:25 p.m. at the Pearl Street Mall, a busy pedestrian promenade in central Boulder. According to police, a man approached a weekly awareness event called “Run For Their Lives,” where demonstrators gather to advocate for hostages held in Gaza, and began hurling firebombs into the group.
Eyewitnesses described the suspect as shirtless and shouting slogans against Zionism before launching the devices. Flames spread quickly, causing panic as people rushed to extinguish the fire and tend to the injured.
Six people, ages 67-88, were taken to local hospitals with burn wounds and other related injuries. The suspect was apprehended at the scene and is currently in custody. Officials have named his as Mohammad Sabry Soliman, age 45.
In a public statement, FBI Director Kash Patel called the incident a “deliberate and ideologically motivated act.” He noted that the Bureau is leading the investigation alongside Boulder police and federal prosecutors. Deputy Director Dan Bongino added that the suspect’s statements and behavior suggest a “targeted ideological attack,” though officials emphasized the investigation is ongoing.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn said investigators are reviewing video footage, collecting witness statements, and analyzing the materials used in the firebombs. “We’re committed to conducting a full and transparent investigation,” he said. “It’s too early to say definitively what drove this individual, but we are taking it extremely seriously.”
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser condemned the violence, saying the early details point toward a hate-based attack. “There is no place for politically or religiously motivated violence in our state,” he said in a statement Sunday evening.
The incident has stirred strong reactions in Boulder and beyond, especially as political tensions surrounding the Middle East remain high. National organizations have expressed concern about a rise in antisemitic and anti-Israel attacks in recent months.
As investigators continue their work, the city has cordoned off part of Pearl Street for public safety. Authorities have asked anyone with video or firsthand accounts to come forward. More details are expected to be released in the coming days.
