In a troubling incident that escalated tensions surrounding pro-Israel demonstrations, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman has been charged with attempted murder and the use of incendiary devices after allegedly bombing a gathering in Boulder, Colorado. The suspect, an Egyptian national, reportedly turned to homemade explosives after being denied a firearm purchase due to his immigration status. Authorities confirmed that the attack on June 1 injured multiple demonstrators, marking a frightening turn of events in an ongoing national discourse on immigration and public safety.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Background of the Incident |
| 2) Motivation Behind the Attack |
| 3) Details of the Assault and Arrest |
| 4) Charges and Legal Implications |
| 5) Community Reactions and Next Steps |
Background of the Incident
On June 1, 2025, a demonstration called “Run For Their Lives” took place in Boulder, Colorado, in support of Israeli hostages. The event was intended to be peaceful, drawing attention to the ongoing plight of captives involved in the Israel-Palestine conflict. As demonstrators gathered, they were unexpectedly faced with violence when Mohamed Sabry Soliman allegedly launched an attack using Molotov cocktails. According to the affidavit filed by the Boulder Police Department, Soliman had allegedly crafted a total of 18 Molotov cocktails before proceeding to the site of the demonstration. Witnesses reported that they observed him throw two of these incendiary devices into the crowd, creating large flames and panic.
Motivation Behind the Attack
Soliman’s reasoning for the attack appears rooted in his personal grievances. In an interview with authorities, Soliman disclosed that he turned to making explosives after being denied the opportunity to purchase a firearm due to his immigration status. Bobbing in a sea of frustration over his situation, he reportedly sought guidance through online resources, specifically YouTube, to learn how to create incendiary devices.
“He said that he had previously tried to purchase a firearm, but resorted to the Molotov cocktails when he could not purchase a gun because he was not a legal citizen,”
said acting U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell during a news conference. Furthermore, investigators indicated that Soliman had been motivated by deep-seated resentment toward the Jewish community, labeling the demonstration attendees as part of a “Zionist group.”
Details of the Assault and Arrest
The day of the attack unfolded with chaotic scenes as Soliman allegedly used glass bottles filled with flammable liquid to launch his assault on the peaceful gathering. Authorities noted that in addition to the Molotov cocktails, he also employed a commercial weed sprayer as a makeshift blowtorch to inflict damage. The Boulder police quickly intervened and apprehended Soliman in his 2015 silver Toyota Prius, where officers discovered multiple bottles containing liquid, a lighter, rags for ignition, and an insecticide sprayer. Other items, including a Quran and documents mentioning “Israel,” “Palestine,” and “USAID,” were also retrieved from his vehicle.
Charges and Legal Implications
Following the incident, Soliman has been charged with a range of serious offenses, including multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder. Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty reported that investigators identified a total of 12 victims, although none succumbed to their injuries. Soliman faces not only state charges but also federal charges relating to a hate crime based on his perceived motives. These dual charges highlight the intricate legal ramifications surrounding the incident and the larger implications concerning public safety and targeted violence.
Dougherty outlined that if convicted on all charges, Soliman could receive an exceptionally lengthy prison sentence, possibly reaching a maximum of 624 years if all sentences were to be stacked consecutively. This includes 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder and other relevant charges. Authority statements indicated a commitment to thoroughly prosecuting Soliman for this heinous act of violence against the demonstrators.
Community Reactions and Next Steps
The Boulder community and officials express a collective concern regarding the alarming rise in violence, particularly as it relates to public demonstrations. Local leaders reiterated that victims and witnesses should not shy away from reporting incidents to law enforcement. Community sentiment remains one of support for the victims, with many emphasizing the need for solidarity amidst rising tensions. The district attorney confirmed commitments to holding Soliman accountable, stressing the importance of bringing justice for those affected by the attack.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was arrested for using Molotov cocktails in an attack against a pro-Israel demonstration. |
| 2 | Soliman’s motivation behind the attack stems from being denied a firearm purchase due to his immigration status. |
| 3 | Authorities have identified 12 victims in the assault, none of whom suffered fatal injuries. |
| 4 | Soliman faces multiple serious charges, including attempted first-degree murder. |
| 5 | The legal implications may lead to a substantial prison sentence if convicted, possibly up to 624 years. |
Summary
The apprehension of Mohamed Sabry Soliman reflects not only a tragic incident of violence but also raises troubling questions regarding the intersection of immigration, gun control, and public safety. As the community rallies to support victims, the case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and legal authorities in addressing motivated acts of violence. With serious charges pending against Soliman and the dialogue surrounding immigration and domestic safety intensifying, this incident leaves lasting implications for Boulder and similar communities nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What motivated Soliman to act violently during the demonstration?
Soliman’s motivation stemmed from being denied the ability to purchase a firearm due to his immigration status, which led to feelings of frustration and resentment against the Jewish community.
Question: How many victims were affected by the attack?
A total of 12 victims were reported, with none suffering fatal injuries.
Question: What charges does Soliman face?
Soliman faces several charges including multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder and the use of incendiary devices, among others.
