Eight People Injured in Suspected Arson Attack at Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall
BOULDER, CO – June 1, 2025 — A peaceful demonstration held on Pearl Street Mall turned violent Sunday afternoon when a man allegedly attacked participants with a makeshift incendiary device. The event, organized by the local chapter of Run for Their Lives, was part of a weekly walk advocating for the release of hostages in Gaza.
According to the FBI’s Denver field office, eight individuals sustained injuries—ranging from minor to severe burns—after a suspect used what has been described as a "makeshift flamethrower" and an incendiary object. The attack occurred around 1:26 p.m. near the Boulder County Courthouse.
Authorities identified the suspect as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, a resident of El Paso County, Colorado. Witnesses said the man shouted political slogans before throwing the device into the crowd. He was quickly apprehended by local police after bystanders pointed him out.
Law enforcement initially reported six injuries, but that number was later updated to eight. The victims include four women and four men, aged between 52 and 88. Some were treated at Boulder Community Health, while others were transported to a burn unit in Aurora.
Eyewitness videos posted online showed chaos in the aftermath—victims being helped by bystanders, emergency personnel arriving quickly on the scene, and emotional responses from participants and community members.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn confirmed that the FBI is assisting with the investigation and stated that the suspect appears to have acted alone. Authorities have not yet disclosed specific charges, and the motive remains under investigation, though terrorism is being considered.
The organization behind the demonstration expressed deep concern for its injured members, emphasizing that their message is strictly humanitarian and focused on the safe return of hostages.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a Boulder resident, condemned the incident, calling it a “heinous act of violence” and urged for unity and resilience.
Security measures remain in place around the Pearl Street area as investigators continue to assess the scene and a vehicle of interest.
This tragedy adds to a growing list of violence tied to global conflict tensions and has left many residents shaken. Still, participants say they will continue to peacefully advocate for human rights.
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