Among Those Gravely Injured in Pearl Street Mall Terror Attack; Mohamed Soliman Identified as Suspect in Molotov Assault Targeting Peaceful Pro-Israel Walk in Boulder

BOULDER, CO — In a horrifying act of violence that has shattered the peaceful heart of downtown Boulder, Colorado, multiple individuals — including children — were seriously injured Sunday afternoon when Molotov cocktails were hurled at a pro-Israel solidarity walk in what authorities have confirmed is being investigated as a deliberate terrorist attack.

The suspect, now identified as Mohamed Soliman, 27, was taken into custody at the scene by Boulder Police officers shortly after the attack. He is believed to have acted alone, disguising himself as a landscaper before launching his assault on the gathering.

The attack unfolded at approximately 2:10 p.m. near the Boulder County Courthouse at 13th and Pearl Streets, an area often bustling with tourists, families, and students from the nearby University of Colorado Boulder. Today, that pedestrian-friendly mall transformed into a scene of chaos, suffering, and emergency response.

Authorities from the Boulder Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and emergency medical personnel swiftly responded to the unfolding crisis. They confirmed that several people were injured, some with life-threatening burns, after incendiary devices ignited near a tightly packed group of peaceful demonstrators.

Victims Injured Amid Flames and Panic

Although officials have not yet released the names of the victims pending family notifications, eyewitnesses have described the injuries as gruesome and severe. At least one child was among those seen screaming and covered in burns. Emergency responders treated victims on site before transporting the most seriously injured to UCHealth Boulder Emergency Room and Denver Health Medical Center via ambulance and medical helicopter.

Paramedics were witnessed applying burn dressings and administering oxygen to victims on the steps of the courthouse. Photographs captured in the immediate aftermath show smoke lingering in the air, scorched pavement, and strewn belongings as people fled the scene in terror.

One video circulating on social media — verified as authentic by local authorities — shows a man engulfed in flames being assisted by bystanders who quickly removed their jackets to douse the fire.

“It was like hell opened up right there,” said Samantha Lee, who attended the event with her husband and two sons. “One moment, we were singing and standing in a circle… the next, it was fire and screams.”

The number of total injuries has not yet been confirmed, but Boulder Police Chief Maris Herold stated that at least six people are being treated for moderate to critical burns. Hospital officials have set up emergency protocols to receive additional patients if needed.

Attack Targeted Peaceful Demonstration Organized by ‘Run For Their Lives’

The event was organized by Run For Their Lives, a U.S.-based advocacy organization that promotes awareness about Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Sunday’s gathering in Boulder was one of many similar events across the country, intended to be peaceful walks — not protests — in support of humanitarian release efforts.

According to organizers, the group met at 1:00 p.m. at Pearl Street and 8th, walking together eastward along the Pearl Street Mall before stopping in front of the Boulder County Courthouse around 2:00 p.m. for a moment of reflection and a group video.

It was during this pause that the suspect struck.

“He came out of nowhere — we thought he was part of the city crew or maintenance, but then he threw the first bottle and flames burst out,” said one participant, who requested anonymity for security reasons. “He didn’t say anything. He just kept lighting and throwing.”

Soliman was reportedly shirtless by the time police detained him. Photographs taken seconds after the attack show him surrounded by officers, subdued on the pavement. His expression appears blank, unmoved by the destruction left in his wake.

FBI and Federal Authorities Confirm Terrorist Intent

The FBI wasted no time classifying the incident as a domestic terror investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino both released statements confirming their active coordination with local agencies.

“We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado,” Patel stated. “This act was not spontaneous — it was calculated, it was violent, and it was intended to harm innocent civilians.”

Federal investigators are currently combing through Mohamed Soliman’s digital footprint, including his email, social media activity, and known associates. While no known affiliation with foreign terrorist organizations has yet been confirmed, Soliman’s online rhetoric reportedly included violent anti-Israel sentiments and praise for extremist ideology.

A source familiar with the investigation, speaking on background, said Soliman had no prior arrests but was known to authorities for attending radical political events.

Scene Locked Down as Evidence Collected

Police have cordoned off several blocks of Pearl Street, particularly the 1200–1400 blocks between Walnut and Pine Streets. Evidence markers dot the cobblestone mall area as bomb technicians and arson investigators examine the explosive remnants of what are believed to be at least three Molotov cocktails — glass bottles filled with accelerant and lit with rag fuses.

Investigators are also analyzing a vehicle of interest parked nearby that may have been used to transport the devices. A bomb-sniffing K-9 unit has been deployed to the area as a precaution, though no secondary explosives have been found as of this report.

Community in Shock as Officials Offer Support

Boulder, known for its progressive values and peaceful demonstrations, is grappling with the trauma of what many are calling an act of hatred and terror.

Mayor Aaron Brockett addressed the city in an emotional statement:

“Today’s attack is an assault not only on a group of peaceful demonstrators but on the spirit of our entire community. We condemn this act of terror and stand united against violence in all its forms.”

Counselors from Boulder Crisis Services are on-site offering psychological support to victims, witnesses, and first responders. Local religious and interfaith organizations, including Congregation Har HaShem and the Islamic Center of Boulder, are planning an interfaith vigil to promote healing and unity.

Run For Their Lives Responds: “We Will Not Be Intimidated”

In a statement released shortly after the attack, Run For Their Lives reaffirmed its mission and condemned the violence:

“Our hearts are broken for those injured in today’s horrific act of terror. We will not be intimidated by hatred. Our commitment to human dignity, peace, and the return of hostages is stronger than ever.”

Organizers are working with legal counsel and law enforcement to ensure participants’ safety for future events, which are scheduled in cities across the United States this summer.

Ongoing Investigation and Call for Information

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and to come forward with any video footage, photographs, or firsthand accounts that may aid the investigation.

If you were in the Pearl Street Mall area between 12:45 and 2:30 p.m. on June 1, you are encouraged to contact the FBI Denver Field Office or the Boulder Police Department at (303) 441-3333.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through Colorado Crime Stoppers.

A City Changed Forever

Though Boulder has experienced protests and political expression over the years, this is one of the most violent and ideologically motivated attacks in recent city history. Residents are shaken, but there is also a growing resolve to not let this moment define them.

“This won’t break us,” said Leah Malkin, a University of Colorado student who attended the event. “We’re here for peace, and we’re staying for peace — even in the face of hate.”

What We Know So Far (Summary):

• Suspect Identified: Mohamed Soliman, 27, now in custody and hospitalized
• Incident Location: 13th and Pearl Streets, in front of the Boulder County Courthouse
• Time of Attack: Approx. 2:10 p.m. on Sunday, June 1
• Type of Attack: Suspect disguised as a landscaper, threw multiple Molotov cocktails into a crowd
• Casualties: Multiple victims with burn injuries, including children; some in critical condition
• Motive: Being investigated as a targeted terrorist attack on a pro-Israel demonstration
• Investigators: FBI, Boulder PD, ATF actively investigating suspect’s background and methods
• Area Status: Pearl Street Mall between 1200–1400 blocks remains closed for investigation

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