A peaceful walk held in Boulder, Colorado, turned violent when a man attacked participants with a homemade flamethrower, injuring eight people.
Federal investigators say the act was targeted and are treating it as terrorism.
The incident happened during a weekly gathering organized by “Run for Their Lives,” a group known for hosting non-protest walking events to raise awareness for Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. The attack disrupted what was intended to be a calm and symbolic 1km walk.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a man throw an incendiary device at the crowd before using a makeshift flamethrower. Authorities identified the suspect as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman. He was taken to the hospital shortly after the assault and is now in custody. The FBI confirmed that he acted alone, and officials say there is no evidence linking him to any organized group.
During the assault, Soliman reportedly shouted “Free Palestine,” according to the FBI. Officials from the Denver FBI office stated that this act was clearly intentional and targeted. They are providing support to local police, along with forensic and technical resources.
Soliman is an Egyptian national who entered the United States on a non-immigrant visa in 2022. His visa expired in February 2023, and he had been living recently in Colorado Springs.
The victims of the attack are aged between 52 and 88. Four are women and four are men. All were taken to nearby hospitals, with some suffering serious burns. At least one victim remains in critical condition, according to officials.
Run for Their Lives is a global movement with over 230 active groups across North America and Europe. Participants wear red shirts and carry flags representing the nationalities of the hostages they aim to support. Though the group originated in California, local events are run independently and are promoted as peaceful rather than political.
Authorities have said that no further press briefings will take place immediately, but police and federal agencies are continuing to investigate. The Boulder County district attorney has promised to pursue full legal action against the suspect.
The attack has drawn swift responses from both national and international officials. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the federal government is monitoring the situation closely and working with partner agencies. Israel’s foreign minister described the event as an act of “pure antisemitism.”
Local Jewish communities in Boulder have also issued statements expressing grief and concern, offering prayers for the victims and support for those affected by the violence.
The Boulder Courthouse will remain closed through Monday as law enforcement continues its work in the area. Investigators say more updates will be shared once available, but for now, the focus remains on supporting the victims and ensuring justice is served.