Federal and local authorities have confirmed that 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman is the suspect responsible for the violent attack that occurred at the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday. The incident, now being investigated as a potential terrorist act, resulted in multiple injuries after incendiary devices were thrown into a peaceful crowd participating in a demonstration. Soliman’s actions have left the Boulder community in shock and grief, as authorities work diligently to piece together the events surrounding the attack.
According to the FBI, eyewitnesses reported that Soliman, who appeared disguised as a landscaper, launched the attack by using a makeshift flamethrower and throwing a Molotov cocktail into the crowd. The demonstration was organized by the group Run For Their Lives, which had gathered near the Boulder County Courthouse to raise awareness about the Israeli hostages being held in Gaza. The demonstration, which was intended to be peaceful, was shattered by the violent and deliberate actions of Soliman, who is believed to have targeted the crowd with incendiary devices.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos and fear, with several individuals— including children— suffering burn injuries. Photos taken by bystanders show scorch marks on the pavement near the courthouse, and at least one individual was seen being carried away on a stretcher. One of the images shared by locals even depicts a shirtless man, who is believed to be Soliman, being detained by Boulder police officers shortly after the incident.
Emergency responders, including the Boulder Police Department, FBI agents, fire services, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, arrived at the scene shortly after 4:00 p.m. Once on site, authorities quickly evacuated the area, including the 1200, 1300, and 1400 blocks of Pearl Street, between Walnut and Pine Streets. Investigators also began searching for a “vehicle of interest” that may be linked to the suspect, intensifying their efforts to determine whether Soliman had any other means of escape or additional plans for further violence.
During a press briefing on Sunday afternoon, FBI Director Kash Patel described the attack as a “targeted act of terrorism.” Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino confirmed that federal agents were working closely with local law enforcement to secure the area, gather evidence, and assess the full extent of the damage. Officials are continuing to investigate Soliman’s motivations, attempting to understand whether the attack was a planned and calculated effort or if there were any larger factors that contributed to this tragic event.
Soliman’s immigration background has become an area of focus for federal authorities. Three senior officials within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have confirmed that Soliman is an Egyptian national who is currently in the United States unlawfully due to a visa overstay. Records show that Soliman entered the U.S. on August 27, 2022, through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visitor visa, which authorized him to stay in the country until February 26, 2023. However, Soliman reportedly did not depart the U.S. by the expiration date, thus becoming an overstayed visa holder.
In addition to his visa overstay, Soliman reportedly filed an asylum claim with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on September 29, 2022. While this claim has not been officially confirmed by USCIS, sources suggest that it may have been part of Soliman’s efforts to remain in the U.S. Despite this, he was granted work authorization by USCIS on March 29, 2023, which is valid through March 28, 2025, under current policies. DHS officials are closely reviewing Soliman’s immigration history and background as part of a broader investigation into his activities and possible ties to larger national security concerns.
Soliman’s personal profile is also under scrutiny as investigators work to determine his possible connections to various sectors. Public records and a professional profile that appears to belong to Soliman suggest he may have experience in finance, digital marketing, and international financial reporting. He is reportedly bilingual in English and Arabic, which has raised questions regarding any international connections or networks that may have influenced his actions. Soliman is also believed to have family residing in Colorado, but these details are still being reviewed by law enforcement as part of the ongoing inquiry.
While authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the attack, the physical injuries sustained by the victims are not believed to be life-threatening at this time. Several victims, including minors, were treated for burns either at the scene or in local hospitals. However, the emotional impact of the attack has left a lasting effect on the local community, which has rallied together in support of the victims and their families. Witnesses and residents are shaken by the terrifying scene, and many are struggling to come to terms with the fact that a peaceful demonstration was marred by an act of violence and hate.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is still in its early stages. Soliman’s motivations remain unclear, and investigators are working tirelessly to gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses. The FBI and local law enforcement agencies have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving the case and ensuring justice for the victims of the attack. Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity before the attack, or anyone with information related to Soliman’s movements, to come forward. Authorities have set up anonymous tip lines for individuals who may have useful information to share.
In the aftermath of this attack, the Boulder community is left grappling with the uncertainty of why this happened and how to prevent future acts of violence. The Pearl Street Mall has long been a gathering place for people to come together in peace, celebrate diversity, and raise awareness on important issues. This attack, however, has shattered that sense of security, and many are left questioning how a peaceful demonstration could have been targeted in such a violent and disturbing way.
Local leaders have pledged to support the victims and their families, offering counseling services, legal aid, and other resources to help those impacted by the attack. The city of Boulder is also working to ensure that future demonstrations are conducted with the safety of participants as a top priority. The city council has called for increased security measures at public events and discussions are underway about how to better protect those exercising their right to free speech and peaceful assembly.
As the investigation continues, federal and local authorities are focused on finding answers to the many questions surrounding the attack. The community remains on edge, but the support for the victims and their families is unwavering. Boulder’s resilience in the face of violence will be tested, but it is clear that the community is united in its determination to seek justice and ensure that this tragedy does not define the city. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information related to the incident to come forward as they work to secure the safety and peace of the Boulder community.
The post Terror Attack in Boulder: Soliman Identified as Suspect in Molotov Cocktail Assault During Peaceful Protest first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
